There’s no doubt that UConn cultivates some of the greatest minds and most talented youths that the country—and the world—has to offer. Though UConn is largely dedicated to being a STEM school of research and education, it is also home to a large number of humanities, business, and arts majors. As an artist myself, and one who has personally experienced the wonders of the UConn Art Department and the programs offered there, it is close to my heart to help spread the word about local artists, their hard work, and the dedicated department and faculty. I recently conducted a caffeine-fueled interview with several of UConn’s most skilled female artists, and decided to do a Campus Celebrity feature on each. This particular article highlights the opinions and talents of local artist Tessa Archambault, and here’s what she has to say:
Q: Basic Information?A: Tessa Archambault, Junior, Illustration major, undecided potential career, favorite medium: Acrylic
Q: How would you describe your style? (The girls decided it was best to describe each other’s style)A: Tessa has an emo and cynical style, but cynical in a way that is humorous or sarcastic. She uses this cynicism to create a unique take on classic tattoo art, while also using black and white, floral, and intricately detailed techniques.
Q: In what ways has the UConn Art Program helped you develop your own personal style?A: Tessa: The small size and therefore smaller class sizes allow you to get to know professors on a smaller and more intimate scale.
Q: Do you think this [the UConn Art Program] is something all students should be exposed to at least once in their college careers? Why?A: Tessa: We have to take other general education classes, so it would make sense to have students from other disciplines take art classes, or at least some sort of fine arts class, not necessarily painting/drawing etc.
Q: In what ways does your artwork express “you” that other ways—verbal, written, or other communications—can’t?A: Tessa: “I use art to express feelings I can’t verbalize, things I can’t talk to people about, so I just make ‘uncomfortable imagery.’”
Q: What do you love most about art? Whether creating or observing.A: Tessa: Seeing the work of other people gives you the motivation to be “as good” as they are. For creating, even if the finished product came out bad, you’re still learning techniques; on the contrary, doubting yourself but having a good final product is reassuring.
Q: Is there anything you would change about the Art Department? (This may be anything from promoting more of the UConn Art Department to other students, or adding a café).A: Tessa: More integration with the rest of campus, and more creative spaces around campus like walls for murals, etc.
Q: Are there certain artist stereotypes you feel are present at UConn as well as nationwide or universally that you wish you could disprove? Are there positive ones?A: Tessa: We have twelve hour days of classes, at least three hours of homework, and other majors don’t seem to have as much class time. Also, there’s no “cheating” in art. Some people assume artists are “too highbrow.”
Q: Do you have a favorite artist? Why this one?A: Tessa: Casey Weldon, an oil painter. Paints nude women that are obscured, and plays off of supernatural themes. The work is conceptually and visually gorgeous.
Some of Tessa’s work is pictured below, but be sure to check out her Instagram and look for her prints for sale on Society6.com !