Teale Hatheway, Class of 1992 - Internationally Exhibited Artist based in Los Angeles

Teale Hatheway, Class of 1992, is a Los Angeles-based artist whose work explores the intersection of observation, recollection, and architecture/infrastructure. Her work has been exhibited all over the world and is featured in corporate, private, and public collections. She mentioned that she had the best memories of her time at Clairbourn School. Read about her latest projects, what inspires her, and her advice for our students or young alums who want to pursue art as a career. Also, check out her websites here: 
 

What kind of artwork do you do?

I’m predominantly known for my somewhat abstract paintings of historic architectural details, places and streetlights. I also produce experiential installation/public art and have a design studio called Pearl and Maude. Pearl and Maude offers custom wallpaper, fabric and home décor patterns derived from my paintings. 

What inspired you to pursue this kind of art about people and ideas of memory, experience, and the "soulful residues left behind"? 

I’m inspired by historic architecture. Having grown up in Pasadena during the early historic preservation era, I experienced the power of beautiful buildings and how they can connect people to each other through a local identity… pride of place. There is energy saturating everything around us and I see my interest in historic places as being a kind of time-travel in which I can identify with others through our shared connection to places which have stood the test of time. In fact, historic locations are so important to me, that I donate a portion of my sales to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

What is your latest project? 

I just launched a new collection of small works called “Community Lights.” It’s a series of paintings based on photos of streetlights sent to me by people from all over the world during the Covid-related lock-downs. I asked people to send me photos of the lamp posts in their neighborhoods and I received a ton of photos! I painted 18 small, vibrant paintings and 3 larger pieces for that collection. I really valued the engagement with friends and followers during that time and they enjoyed the scavenger hunt for lights. In fact, I’m still collecting photos of lights to paint.

What is an artwork or project that you're most proud of and why? 

Because I focus on making work I’m passionate about, my current projects are always my favorite. But earlier this year, I had several pieces purchased for the private villas at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. The Bellagio has a world class fine art collection and I’m honored to be included in it.

What advice would you give to our students who want to pursue art as a career?

Be genuine to yourself and think beyond you’re comfort level. It comes through in everything you do. Find the work that you LOVE making because you will make a lot of it. Also, plan on taking some business classes or working for someone else for a while. It’s easy to get caught up in the creative process but being an artist means being an entrepreneur. Understanding basic business structure, writing well, managing finances and contracts, and being disciplined are extremely important qualities of a successful artist. Finally, get out there and meet people. Go to museums, galleries, and open studios. Find your kindred spirits. They will help you.
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