Enjoy the contemporary portfolio of artist Theresa Zingg, who evolved from working in a garage to living the gallery dream. See more by visiting her website.
“Passage of Gold”, mixed media oil painting, 30″ x 30″
Art has always been a part of my life, even before I recognized it as such. In high school, I was the kid filling notebook margins with sketches, drawn to the raw, emotional power of images more than words could ever convey. But it wasn’t until 2016, painting alone in my garage as an adult, that I truly began to see myself as an artist. That space, cluttered and imperfect, became my first real studio.
“Luminous Burgundy”, mixed media oil painting, 36″ x 36″
Those early days were full of experimentation and self-discovery. Without formal training, I leaned into instinct—embracing mistakes, messiness, and the expressive possibilities of materials. It was during this time that my foundational technique emerged: starting with a chaotic, energetic underpainting in inks, layering in loose acrylic washes, and slowly building toward clarity.
“Rosette Fringe” oil and mixed media painting on professional watercolor paper, 22″ x 30″
A dark glaze of transparent paint would unify the piece, pushing forms back into shadow and carving out mid-tones. I’d then finish with bold, opaque highlights—moments of clarity piercing through the fog.
“Mastery in the Bisque” oil and mixed media painting on canvas, 30″ x 30″
This process, both physical and emotional, mirrored my own journey. In 2024, I made the decision to formalize my practice and apply to art school. I wanted to sharpen my vision, study the craft, and connect with a community of artists who shared my drive. It’s been a transformative experience.
“Time of the Willow” oil and mixed media painting on professional watercolor paper, 22″ x 30″
I graduated in 2025, equipped not just with technique, but with a deeper understanding of what it means to make work that resonates.
“Glowing Pattern in the Window”, mixed media oil painting, 30″ x 30″
My artistic voice is rooted in contrast—chaos and control, darkness and light, the everyday and the transcendent. I’ve always felt drawn to the idea of the “everyman”—a kind of universal figure who carries the weight of ordinary life with quiet resilience. My work seeks to reflect that spirit: rough around the edges, but deeply human.
“Umber of the Eye” and mixed media painting on canvas, 36″ x 34″
Looking ahead, I’m focused on building a career that bridges accessibility with ambition. I’m pursuing gallery representation and aim to exhibit at national and international art fairs. I want my work to reach new audiences, but always remain grounded in authenticity.
“Marveling Rouge” oil and mixed media painting on canvas, 30″ x 30″
Art started for me in a garage with no rules. Now, with years of experience and a degree on the horizon, I’m stepping into the next phase—still chasing that original spark, but with a clearer path and bigger goals.
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