Tessa is a self taught artist, author, and illustrator. Her work is primarily inspired by her experience as a complicated blob of cells briefly existing on a floating rock in space.
In elementary school I wanted to be a marine biologist. So, I took a lot of notes, sat through some exams, and eventually, in 2020, earned my Masters in Marine Biology. I then continued my research at the NOAA Hollings Marine Lab where I worked with microplastics, dolphins, and wonderful Earth-minded people. I am grateful for my time in academia, and for the unique skills, knowledge, and insights it provided.
Eventually, I realized I wanted a little more creativity and freedom in my pursuits. So, I took my education, colored pencils, paint, and crayons and smooshed them together, then sat back to see what would come of it. This creative monster I call a career is continually growing and evolving!
My work takes many forms. From oil paintings heavily influenced by the natural world, to digital illustrations touching on every day life. In 2023 I wrote, illustrated, and published my first children’s book. I have since published four more and have plans for many more to come!
Past projects I’ve enjoyed !
Over the pandemic, I had the wonderful opportunity to create the artwork for the second collection of swimwear for Vaga Bella Swim. VBS is a non-profit swimwear line, co-founded by Elayna Carausu and Ava Brannon. VBS suits are made with 100% recycled yarns, ethically manufactured, and ship 100% plastic free.
Click the link below to shop Vaga Bella Swim!
Vaga Bella Swim
In 2018 I had the wonderful opportunity of working with Alex and the SV Delos crew to design this tank top. SV Delos is a group of amazing people with a passion for sharing adventure and love and respect for the ocean. They have been sailing the world for the past 10+ years and documenting their travels along the way. If you’re looking for some salty adventure I recommend checking out their YouTube channel below. You can also purchase these tanktops by checking out their website!
SV Delos design
When Elayna approached me about creating a children’s book I was over the moon. This has been by far one of my favorite projects! If you know a little one that would like to learn about sailing, check out this ABC book written by Elayna.
Available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Silverwood Books.
The Little Sailors ABC’s
The pink and yellow repeating crab print that imitates fish scales was a brain child of Elaynas. She wanted fins to match her dive belt and I was happy to bring her idea to life. Naturally, we needed to create a design for Riley and I wanted to make something that tied in not only their new trimaran, but also the sport of free diving itself. If you’re not already following Elayna, Riley and their two children as they explore the world by boat on YouTube, do yourself a favor and head over to their site now! You can also check out their online shop and support the LaVagabond family below!
Free diving fins
