Today we’d like to introduce you to Teresa Frazee.
Teresa, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Born, 1953 in New York City, I always had a passion for the arts throughout my life. From painting storefront windows for holidays when I was 10, drawing on my thigh from a lack of proper art supplies, to winning art contests as a child, I have been a visual artist for over 50 years. Having been the only creative person in my entire extended family, save for perhaps an eccentric aunt, I was on my own. A turning point came when I was about 11 during one of our families Sunday drives. Our destination was Washington Square Park. And there they were, dressed all in black, Beatniks, consisting of artists, street musicians, performance artists and poets. I found my own corner of Eden, I was home. Since I was a small girl I had always drawn, painted, made my own jewelry and even sang in the church choir but from that day forward I had a newfound lifelong career. As the beatniks back in the day, I realized right there and then, we are bohemian born. To be a true artist is not a choice but a summoning odyssey that reigns over one’s imagination.
I am entangled in never aging creativity, ever rousing to be materialized. I am prolific, creating every day since. Having exhibited in over 100 solo and group exhibitions both juried and invitational as well as having received numerous awards and honors, including Art featured in Penthouse Letters April 1991 issue, and Selected Biannual International Contemporary Art, Florence Italy. I also am a published poet, including nationally and internationally, books, magazines, anthologies, E books and E Zines. I was the founder and host of the Boca Museum of Art Artist’s Guild Poetry reading series, Art & Literature from Nov. 2011 to May 2012. I have been writing poetry, short stories for about 15 years. I find writing to be a perfect fit for me. Painting with words is similar to painting with paint. Also, I am a playwright. I have written 9 plays. Six have been produced.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
It would be hard to overstate the vital contribution New York City has made to my art. My latest, Terra -X series bears witness to that. These non-representational acrylic paintings, range from large scale to various sizes, summoning the observer, inviting contemplation so they may have a more in-depth sense of involvement and communication, where an intellectual relationship can be bonded between myself and the viewer. With my materials I reinvent space, creating a habitat of forms evolving without compromise, into an urban landscape, resonant of the cities many posted signs or construction sites, with a complex interplay of textured patterns. ripped paper, letters, screen, assorted hardware and distressed wood.
I create work that hopefully stimulates emotion from my viewers and perhaps make it difficult to experience my work without being affected by them after image. In my work. the message is, no fear. Without a trace of regret, I have no children, grandchildren, pets or plants to nurture, only my work. I live a life surrounded by art and artists including my husband of 46 years, a painter and sculptor, John, my inspiration. Mixing arts and literature, expanding my horizon, I have created a fertile terrain on another plane where illusion knows no bounds. Inside my world of make believe I create what I know to be true. Bound by the creative force, I leave reality up to you. To copy nature is not my intention but to portray my spiritual version of it, abandoning all concepts of reality. Once you see the environment in the light of your own unwavering truth you never see it any other way.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
Yes, join as many local art organizations as possible. I belong to the Boca Museum of Art, Artists’ Guild which I have been a Participating Signature Member for about 10 years, the Broward Art Guild and Art Serve to name a few. For an artist these types of outlets are invaluable. Frequent Art Opening Receptions, exchange business cards and sign guest books, so you are on their email list for further events like Art Walks, as every town has one. You will be in the mist of other like-minded creative people of all ages with different styles and techniques.
Critiques are another good outlet to connect. I helped run one a few years ago and I met some interesting artists, now friends. If they don’t have one in your area then start one. Also, an Algonquin Round Table sort of ART discussion group, not a critique but working artists getting together to discuss their feelings, thoughts, technique, or problem solving is recommended. I can testify to the fact, it is a fabulous way to meet and gravitate toward artists. We love to talk about ourselves and what better ear to speak into then another artist. Yes, I’ve heard that being an artist is lonely but it doesn’t have to be. There’s no excuse to be lonely. Just get out there.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
To view my paintings, read some of my poetry and plays: www.frazeefinearts.com and Teresa Frazee FB page.
Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts- My work has been on exhibition since 2016.
1105 2nd Ave. S
Lake Worth 33460
Exhibiting my Acrylic Painting, “Blue Validation”” 43″x43″
Exhibition runs Sept.1- 29, 2019
Opening reception Sat. Sept. 15, from 6-9 pm
JF Gallery : 7th Annual Juried Art Exhibition
3901 Dixie Hwy.
WPB
MIXED MEDIA AN EMPTY CLOSET WOMEN’S THEATER PRODUCTION : Women’s Art & Theatrical performance. Oct. 6, 2018 from 6-8pm, Compass Community Center 201 N Dixie Hwy. Lake Worth. I am one of four Palm Beach County women artist exhibiting small works and one of the playwrights “Off the Grid” Tickets for seating on Facebook Empty Closet Women’s Theater. Suggested donation $10. Proceeds go to support Compass Women’s Health Programs.
Contact Info:
- Address: 260 High Point Ct A
Boynton Beach, FL 33435 - Website: www.frazeefinearts.com Teresa’s Gallery, and Terra-X
- Phone: 561-732-3118
- Email: teresafrazee@yahoo.com
- Facebook: Teresa Frazee
X-TENSIVE RECONSTRUCTION- 36″x48″ -Acrylic on Board
Image Credit:
All images are my property and taken by Frazee Fine Arts.
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