Tina Salvesen’s art is an underwater fantasy land
They Have An Unlimited Salad Bar - Tina Salvesen
If you are in central London and not playing in the snow you should definitely make your way over to the Science Museum for the last day of the Watercolours and Works on Paper Fair. I spent about 4 hours wandering round the stands, chatting to people and finding new things to add to my “If only” art wishlist. One of my favourite new discoveries, Tina Salvesen, came thanks to a chat with the lovely Byrna West of West Two gallery.
Miami-based artist Salvesen does these wonderful organic-looking works which really put me in mind of the candy land installation by Pip & Pop but as sketched by Quentin Blake. That fluid, bright, intricate, optimistic flavour really caught my attention across a crowded room. Apparently one of Salvesen’s many previous projects was a collaboration with Jacques Cousteau, illustrating The Cousteau World Almanac.
Looking at her work, the pairing makes perfect sense. There’s very much an underwater vibe to be had from a lot of the pieces, including those which imagine the worlds of Nebadon (a universe mentioned in The Urantia Book) and of Nibiru (a planet-sized object which, according to an unscientific doomsday theory, is on a collision course with Earth).
In a slightly different vein – although still clearly by the same artist – are several monochrome seed studies. My favourite is the dandelion, possibly because it reminds me of a sea anemone or similar.
I’ve shared a selection of her work in the slideshow below – enjoy!
Thanks for your kind comments. It was lovely to meet you! -byrna
Likewise! :)
GO Tina Salvesen!!! LONDON is LUCKY 2 have your WORK on DISPLAY. Who LOVES u BABY??? yo MOMMA do!
What a wonderful discovery. I love Tina’s work as well. Colorful and detailed. I am sure her work brighten up a winter London day.
Cheers!
Congratulations Tina! You are setting the art world on fire. Am immensely proud to have been able to watch your artwork evolve over the years. Each strain has been consistently bold, captivating and a sight to behold. Your artwork is unparalled and unique. Love the piece mentioned above “They have an unlimited salad bar”. Great name!