Tessa Thonett

Tessa Thonett is a portrait painter. She also paints ‘imaginary portraits’ of women who are sensitive and yet strong. She calls it her ‘Grace N’ Grit’ series. Tessa is fascinated by the balance of strength and vulnerability in people, especially women.

Being a strong and sensitive woman herself, Tessa knows how difficult it is to deal with the judgements that come. Women are accused of being ‘weak’ or ‘hysterical’ for being sensitive, and also ‘masculine’ or a ‘diva’ for being strong.

This is still very much a man’s world, and so Tessa wants to honour those women who have persevered without breaking. She wants to honour those who didn’t put up shields of protection. And honour those who keep showing their vulnerability and persevering through the madness. Tessa sees these women as more complex human beings.  This makes them more fascinating for her. She is drawn to paint them and what their eyes tell you.