ess developed her interest in calligraphy in early childhood when she spent much time in church. Her parents Derrick and Margaret Cooling are both Anglican clergy. She was also inspired by her former art teacher Rhoda Cooper at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls and Bob Waldie at Croesyceiliog School who taught her the basics of calligraphy.
fter studying for a BA degree in Interior Design and Architecture at North London Polytechnic Tess later qualified as a teacher at University College Wales, Newport. She has taught design and technology in London, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire, but now devotes her time to being a full time artist.
ess has been commissioned to do work by many organisations and individual people from across the UK and overseas. She has also been commissioned to produce pieces to be presented to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Archbishop of York and the Chaplain to the Armed Forces.
xhibitions of Tess’ work have included venues at St Albans Cathedral, Belmont Abbey, Hereford Art and many galleries and churches. She regularly exhibits at the National Christian Resources Exhibition. Her work has featured on the BBC Radio Wales programme All Things Considered and articles in Church Times. Woman Alive and the Retreat Magazine.
ess is a member of the Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society (CLAS) and The Society of Scribes and Illuminators (SSI).
ike many artists Tess is a collector of beautiful things and pictures that inspire her work.
Wherever Tess goes she carries her camera and note pad knowing there may be something that catches her eye. It's not unusual for her to return home from a trip to the beach with a piece of driftwood, a pebble or a shell in her bag. Sunlight through trees, shadows cast over hills and glorious views become stored away in her camera - ready to be the inspiration for her pen, ink and paint.
Tess is developing other three dimensional areas of her work. Current pieces include hand held wooden meditation blocks which can be taken anywhere and can be a comforting focus for prayer or as a small gift . They are made using reclaimed timber and are finished with 23 ct gold leaf.
Tess is also painting stones and will be pleased to discuss any ideas you have for specific symbols or words you may require. She has also been commissioned to make door plaques for a residential home and would be happy to discuss your ideas.
Prices are all individual as these are unique pieces made to order. Visit the Scrapbook Page to view.
ess’ work is produced on heavy weight, roughly textured, handmade linen rag water colour paper. Lettering is drawn in water resistant inks of archival quality, all of which are fade resistant. Illuminations are completed in artists’ quality watercolour paint and inks. 23 carat gold or silver leaf is used on all original pieces and hand finished prints.
Prints are available of all of Tess’ original work. Prints are reproduced using the very best, colour managed Giclee printing equipment. This includes archival quality papers and inks.
Each piece is individually hand finished by Tess. This includes embossing and using gold, copper or metal leaf. All pieces are available in several sizes and are produced in hand made oak frames. This is reflected in the price. Tess is happy to discuss other framing preferences.
Tess Cooling Calligraphy
Wyefield House, Monmouth
Monmouthshire NP25 3NP
Tel: 01600 713021
Mob: 07916 278146
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