Meet Tessa Fuqua | Artist/Actor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tessa Fuqua and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tessa, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I am a risk-taker, but usually, it is a calculated risk. I count the costs and analyze the situation or opportunity before I leap. Balancing the time, energy, and resources the risk would take with the needs of my family is always a priority in whatever professional or creative endeavour I undertake. As an artist and actor I find that taking risks has opened many doors and brought me success. Often, unexpected opportunities also arise when I have been willing to try something new or submit for a project or gig. Risk-taking has been key in making new connections and expanding my network – which then leads to more opportunities to work and create.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I hope that when people see my art it brings some joy or provokes thought. My art tends to be colorful and positive. I do a lot of people and animals in my illustrations and paintings. My larger street art usually has an element of fun or humor. It has taken hard work and learning and grace to get to where I am today. I did not follow a traditional route of going to art school, interning, etc. I am self-taught and self-driven as far as my creative career goes. Before I pursued art more fully I worked as a lawyer, teacher, minister, radio show host, and even barista! My real full-time job until I was in my 40’s was being a full-time mom and homeschooling our kids. Challenges regarding my age, gender, and background are always cropping up. But I actually love challenge and change. I thrive on goals and deadlines. I hope when others see me living a successful creative life they will be encouraged. Because if “just a mom” like me can pursue her dream and succeed, then anyone who dares to try can do it, too! One of the main things I have learned is to view this creative life as an ongoing journey, rather than an “arriving” somewhere. It is a path of many steps and of getting to many places. Every creation, finished product, show, award, or even failure is just another beautiful step. Stay curious, be brave, try stuff.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Denver is a fun town. The “Best Time Ever” itinerary would include touring some local distilleries, a brewery tour, biking and hiking, going to see a couple of plays at local theaters, First Friday at Santa Fe Arts District and Rino, catching a Broncos or Nuggets game, and since I am a foodie we would visit several local restaurants and food trucks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Some shoutouts to people who have loved and supported and encouraged me: My parents who never told me I wasn’t capable of doing something. My confidence and belief in myself is definitely a product of their nurturing and belief in me.
My husband who always appreciates who I am and how I do different things.
My kids who went along my different waves of creativity and now ride waves of their own.
The artists (too many to name) who have been my community and inspiration on this journey.
My friends and patrons who buy the art, go to the shows, and cheer me on.

Website: https://www.tessafuquaartworks.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artmom66/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-fuqua-04771216

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tessa.fuqua/