Cat Tesla’s path to becoming an artist is quite different than most others. In the beginning of her career, it was a toss-up between art and science. Tesla began with the latter and obtained a master's degree in human genetics. For 20 years she worked at Emory University seeing patients in genetic clinics. While this wasn’t the final stop on her career path, her time in the medical field helped direct her back to her innate passions—nature and creating.
She says of her career at Emory, “Averaging 500 patients a year, I had a range of experiences.” Her years in genetics, a job which often required parlaying devastating, life-changing news, led her to seek solace in yoga, hiking, and mindful meditation. She eventually decided to pursue her first love, obtaining a degree in graphic design and eventually leaving genetics to further develop her identity in front of the easel.
Style and Subject Matter
The "Chrysalis Series" is an abstraction of nature employing acrylic, inks, graphite, wax crayon, oil pastel, and oil glazes. Tesla begins with an gesture drawing in graphite and wax crayon, then applies translucent layers, more markings, and more paint. She says of her methodology, “In our minds, we know what a hike looks like, or a garden, a meadow, or a waterfall. But what do they feel like? That’s what I try to convey in my painting.” When you see these commanding pieces in person, it’s hard to ignore their invitation into a new understanding of the organic elements surrounding us.
Similar Artists
Tesla’s dreamy ethereal landscapes are a vibrant addition to any space or room. If you like her elemental, surreal texture, you’d also love the dreamy work of California artist, Liz Jardine. For pieces that share Tesla’s feminine glam, consider a mixed media work from Maeve Harris. If you love the natural abstraction of Tesla’s pieces, you’ll admire Noah Desmond’s stunning water gardens. Each artist creates a unique experience that resonates differently with each viewer.
At Prairiebrooke, we’re proud to represent some of the finest artists from throughout the region, nation, and world. Stop by our Downtown Overland Park Gallery to view our wide selection of contemporary art. Schedule your one-on-one consultation to get started!