Our Spotlight on the Arts shines brightly on local artist, Tamila Theall!

How long have you been painting?

As a child, I always doodled, drew, or painted. In the late 1980’s, while studying physics engineering at Tbilisi University, art classes were offered in the evenings. I used this excellent opportunity to learn about composition, color theory, light and shadow, perspective, and everything else one must consider when painting on a 2D surface and trying to immerse the viewer in a 3D experience. I attended art classes there for three years, and I will be forever grateful to those teachers.

Originally from Tbilisi, Georgia (country, not state), what brought you to St. Mary’s County?

It is over 24 years now that I have lived in the United States. My husband and I moved to Calvert Country from Northern Virginia more than four years ago. We used to visit this area on weekends to escape from a busy life and enjoy nature.

We fell in love with the beauty and slow pace of life that Southern Maryland generously offers. Unbeknownst to us, after moving here we discovered that this area has a vast art community! Southern Maryland is indeed a hidden gem!

What drives your artistic expression?

The urge to paint (or muse, as I call it) can come to me from any source, be it a sun reflection on a flower or a tree, music, nature, visiting art galleries, etc. After visiting Yellowstone National Park and seeing natural wildlife, I painted bison after returning home. I took the photo and used it as a reference. This painting is now my husband’s favorite, and he is keeping it!

Is your artwork available for purchase locally?

My artwork is on display and available for purchase at the CalvART Gallery (Arts Council of Calvert County) and the St. Mary County Arts Council Gallery & Gift Shop.

Also, you can find me at the Sunny Art Galleria booth at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Art Center’s annual ArtsFest event during the third weekend in September. I enjoy seeing and chatting with my art collectors and new customers during this two-day festival. I won the best booth award in 2022 and had the honor of designing the ArtsFest 2024 logo, which reflected life in Southern Maryland and was well received by many.

What are a few of your other interests or occupations outside of your art?

My husband and I love to travel and visit new places. As a result, I always gather inspiration for my future artwork.

Thank you, Tamila, for sharing your story with us and being a valuable part of our artistic community!

Media Links

Other links of interest:

  • St. Mary’s County Arts Council Gallery & Gift Shop – www.facebook.com/smcacgallery

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