Meet Theresa
I am a long time career portrait artist, painter and fiber artist whose career embraces many areas of the Arts. I attended East Carolina University, majoring in Commercial Art and Printmaking. Years of painting, printmaking and color work
led me to explore the fiber arts. Using many similar skills and accumulated
knowledge, I evolved as a hand painter and ecoprinter on leather and fabric.
I use natural dyes and low impact synthetic dyes and merge them into unique,
beautiful designs on silk, wool and leather. I transform the finished fabric into
artisanal clothing, accessories and art. I have taught workshops at many Fiber
Shows and art centers around the country as well as at my own studio.
I am also a certified practitioner of the art of forest relaxation known as
“Shinrin Yoku” (which translates to “Forest Bathing.” ) and strive to create art
that is touched by the influence of Nature. I am proud of creating everything,
by hand, that comes from the studio of The Silk Thread. My fiber work has been
featured in international publications such as “No Serial Number” and
“Belle Armoire”.
On the Painting side, I am delighted that my award winning portraits are
hanging in homes and businesses worldwide. I’ve illustrated books for major
publishing companies, written audio ebooks and “How To” painting DVD’s
for the nationwide art supply store, Jerrysartarama.com.
I am a motivational speaker for art groups interested in the working artist. Many
of my articles appear in Ezine Magazines as well as Art Blogs. My artist husband, Stephen Filarsky and I teach painting workshops in our studio and venues
around the country for art groups.
Several times a week you can find me teaching painting at both the main and
satellite campuses of Vance Granville Community College. We travel and
participate in shows across the US. When not out on the road, we’re at our rural
NC mini farm along with 2 alpacas, chickens and family dogs. The life of the
working artist is hectic, fulfilling and rewarding and we wouldn’t have it any
other way!