'I am not what I am, I am what I can do with my hands.'
- Louise Bourgeois
I recognise a large family with many aunts, uncles and cousins spanning several countries. My paternal grandmother is the mother to seven children.
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My great grandfather, Bertie Wishart, fought at Gallipoli in WW1. His service medal was returned to the family in 2020 after many decades of being lost.
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My maternal grandmother, Jean Ball, practiced traditional handcraft though my childhood.
I am the daughter of Kelvin Wishart, an engineer and Navy man, and Caroline Wishart; both are creators. I am one of two children; sister to Elise Wishart.
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Of half-British decent, as my mother emigrated to New Zealand during childhood.
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I grew up onboard boats and yachts, taking my firsts steps whilst sailing. My childhood included many weeks sailing the Hauraki Gulf and neighbouring islands.
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As a young child, I used to create fabric sketches by pinning scraps of material to dolls. This aptitude and enjoyment for clothing has followed me thought my life.
I am well travelled, having visited many different countries in infancy and throughout recent years.
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I am an artist, painter, metalsmith, jeweller, baker, sewist and handcrafter.
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I am most comfortable as a creator.
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I am
Tessa Marie Wishart.
Artwork: Self-painted images from 2017-2018, depicting my personal ethos as a designer.