Biography

Teresa Shields, based near Philadelphia in Jenkintown, draws inspiration from fabric, thread, wool fiber, magnets, and wood. Her journey began with interpreting abstract shapes from sliced fruits and vegetables through embroidery, transitioning to wet felting in 2016. Renowned for her idiosyncratic work that beckons tactile engagement, Teresa has exhibited across the United States, accumulating over 20 awards and collections by eight institutions, including the Woodmere Art Museum and the Hunterdon Art Museum. Holding a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University and an MFA from Mass College of Art, her educational background deeply influences her artistic vision. Twice recognized as a resident artist, she strengthens her ties within the artistic community. Represented by Gravers Lane Gallery, her work has been featured in publications and prominent solo exhibitions. Teresa continues to captivate audiences through innovative artistic expressions, manifesting a profound dedication to her craft.

Artist Statement

A lifelong maker, I find beauty in the human touch evident in fabric and stitching. Nature, with its diverse forms, serves as my muse, guiding my embroidery with deliberate precision, while my felt making is a playful exploration, a dance between progress and setbacks.