"Tess Newall constantly takes her watercolor paints and sketchbooks along with her": Obsessive hobbies of Tess Newall
Attitude Adjustment
Get ready to learn about the vibrant and creative mind of Tess Newall, a multitalented artist who's got color and joy in spades! From her stunning wallpapers to her unique homewares, Newall's botanical twist is capturing the hearts of many, including fashion icon Alexa Chung. But beyond her stunning creations, what makes Tess Newall tick? Let's dive in and find out!
A Colorful Muse
If there's one person who inspires Tess Newall, it's the decorative artist Peggy Angus. Angus lived and worked in a quaint cottage tucked away under the South Downs, and her philosophy that art should be an integral part of life resonates strongly with Tess. Everything in Angus's home - from the wooden stairs to the fireplace tiles - was adorned with art, and anyone who visited was invited to join in and help paint or print. Tess dreams of the day she could have met this creative force.
Ink-Bound Inspiration
When it comes to books, Tess has quite a few favorites, but one that truly stands out is The Notebook by Roland Allen. This fascinating read sails through the history of the humble notebook as a tool for thought and creativity, tracing its impact on artists like Frida Kahlo and writers like Isaac Newton. Allen's captivating talk at The Linnean Society further brings to life the importance of the notepad in shaping the world's arts and sciences.
Recently, Tess started reading Tirzah Garwood's autobiography and found it deeply inspiring. Garwood, who was often overshadowed by her husband, Eric Ravilious, was a gifted artist whose life was tragically cut short. Through her honest tale, Tess captures a sense of real humanity as she chronicles Garwood's struggles to maintain her artistic life amidst family obligations and declining health. Garwood's extraordinary work is finally receiving the recognition it deserves, and Tess cannot help but feel inspired.
A Gallery Marvel
One exhibition that truly left an impression on Tess was the Tirzah Garwood show at Dulwich Picture Gallery. The exhibition showcased a diverse array of Garwood's work, from paintings and wood engravings to marbled papers, embroideries, and more. The exhibition also displayed Spanish Lady, a beautiful painting from Garwood's final year of life. The gallery's upcoming Bardfield Murals exhibition is next on Tess's list, featuring works by Ravilious and Bawden.
Mood Music
When it comes to music, Tess's tastes are as colorful as her art, with an eclectic mix of songs that cater to her ever-changing mood. Growing up, she listened to Van Morrison, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, and has continued to return to these old favorites. In her teen years, she had a soft spot for Oasis and Blur, and those are still songs she cherishes to this day. Irish and Scottish folk tunes by artists like The Corries and Thin Lizzy remain a firm favorite as well.
The Perfect Present
One of the most special gifts Tess has ever received is a giant wooden flower press made by her husband, Alfred. The press is large enough to handle the tallest wildflowers from around them, like poppies and cornflowers. The flowers that Tess pressed with her son during their first summer in Sussex now proudly adorn the walls of their bathroom, serving as a constant reminder of cherished memories.
Masterpiece Magic
When it comes to her favorite painting, Tess can't go past an early Duncan Grant still life of flowers, which hangs in the Charleston Farmhouse dining room. The uplifting color palette has the power to hold her gaze for hours on end, making her want to visit Charleston often.
Desert Island Essentials
If Tess were stranded on a desert island, she would bring a watercolor set and sketchpad. Creating drawings in this remote setting would help her remember the essence of the island, making the best of her time there.
A Timeless Hideaway
When it comes to a place she'd love to return again and again, Tess can't resist the charm of The Colombe d'Or in Saint Paul de Vence. This unassuming hotel opened its doors in 1920 and has since welcomed artists and writers to its unhurried atmosphere. The hotel offers free board in exchange for artwork, and its walls proudly display masterpieces by Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall, among others. The hand-painted menu is simple yet delicious, making it the perfect place to unwind.
To Treasure Forever
The prototype of Tess and Alfred's Botanica Mirror is a treasure Tess couldn't sell, even if she wanted to. The mirror, inspired by Arts & Crafts joinery and featuring artworks of native Sussex wildflowers, holds a special place in Tess's heart as she dreams of her children one day cherishing it in their own homes.
A Podcast Pal
When she's painting, Tess turns to the Desert Island Discs podcast for company. Listening to episodes with guests like Whoopi Goldberg, Alfred Hitchcock, Maya Angelou, and Keith Richards helps take her mind off the task at hand.
A Recent Acquisition
Tess recently added an exquisite 18th-century Chinese embroidered silk fabric to her collection. The intricate pattern reminds her of one she saw in the V&A Museum, and Tess looks forward to drawing inspiration from this charming piece for future wallpaper and fabric collections.
Silver Screen Self
If a movie were made about Tess's life, she believes Saoirse Ronan would make a fitting choice to portray her. Tess worked with Ronan and Margot Robbie during the press day of Mary Queen of Scots, and was told there was a resemblance between the two.
A Brocante Huntress
Tess adores rummaging through brocantes (French antique markets), and her passion for these charming finds has led to a growing collection of painted plates that brighten the walls of her home. Her favorites come from Quimper in Brittany and Deruta in Umbria, and she can't resist the allure of these enchanting treasures.
Daily Drives
What gets Tess out of bed every morning? Peals of laughter and demands for breakfast from her three children. But beyond the morning chaos, Tess is genuinely excited about the prospect of spending time outdoors, whether hiking, cycling, or basking in the beauty of nature. And let's not forget that Tess deeply cherishes her work, feeling fortunate to have her creations grace the walls of people from all corners of the world.
Memorable Meals
One of Tess's most memorable meals took place at The Museum of Antiquities in Cairo, where Egyptian chef Leila Gohar prepared a truly unforgettable feast. From flowing pomegranate fountains to bread sculptures, every dish was a delight for the senses. Tess also savored a dish called koshary - a traditional Egyptian dish of rice, lentils, and pasta - and longs to learn how to make it herself.
- Tess Newall finds inspiration in the artistic lifestyle of Peggy Angus, whose home was a haven for creative expression in every aspect, including fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden.
- Tess's reading choices reflect her interest in literature that delves into the lives and works of artists, such as Roland Allen's The Notebook and Tirzah Garwood's autobiography, which offer insights into food-and-drink, relationships, and travel.
- Tess dreams of visiting The Colombe d'Or in Saint Paul de Vence, a hotel that has long been a magnet for artists, fashion icons, and writers, offering a chance to immerse herself in a vibrant and creative environment reminiscent of her own lifestyle.
