Theresa Cleaves

Mosaic and Mixed Media

I believe all of us have gifts to share with the world and that when we use those gifts, we shine our brightest, we affect people for the common good, and work doesn’t feel so much like work. I was a dedicated and hardworking nurse for over 25 years. Six years ago I gave it all up for art. People say I’m still taking broken things and putting them back together, so I guess we never really let go of what is most true of ourselves. I am an avid reader, a connoisseur of low end thrift shops, and an admitted perfectionist. In my fantasy version of myself, I’m calm and relaxed; I even meditate and recycle. But in reality, I move 100 miles an hour, am always juggling projects, volunteer too many hours away, and can’t say no to any idea that tries to improve the human condition. My art works do not start with an image, but with a thought, a mood, maybe an event or a dream. Art is the place that feeds my soul, the place where I remember who I am and who I was, the place where I commune with God. Art keeps me authentic.

Awards
1st Place, Leavenworth Main St Art Show, 2012.

Honorable Mention, LCAA Holiday Show, 2010,
Leavenworth, KS.

Goodjohn Painting Award, LCAA Holiday Show, 2009, Leavenworth, KS.

Honorable Mention, LCAA Holiday Show, 2008, Leavenworth, KS.

2nd Place, First City Festival Show, 2008,
Leavenworth, KS.

Theme Award, First City Festival Show, 2007,
Leavenworth, KS.

Honorable Mention, LCAA Holiday Show, 2007, Leavenworth, KS.