Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanesha Pitt.
Hi Tanesha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a pencil in my right hand and a book in the next, eager to draw everything around me. I used to spend summers in the country, in Jamaica with my grandmother. During my time in the country, I was inspired by the breathtaking scenery. Id sit on her balcony and draw all the mountains in the distance, the breadfruit tree just outside her window, the birds, clouds and everything in sight. I grew up in New York, and my drawings evolved from landscapes of the countryside to brick buildings, concrete pavements and metal fences. My perspective changed and I loved it. For months, I drew snow, snowmen, snow covered trees, snow covered cars, if it had to do with winter, it was in my book. The change in scenery forced me to fall in love with the beautiful world around me and all the seasons.
Not long after, I was introduced to string art. I loved it so much my mom allowed me to use thumbtacks to make outlines on the wall and connect the dots with beautiful colored strings. I created a mural on my bedroom walls in string art and it inspired me every day. In fact, because of that experience, I always knew I wanted to have a gallery in my house when I grew up.
In 2019, I took a chance on myself. I began my professional career as an independent artist while on maternity leave. I wanted to do something that would set me apart from the majority. I knew that there was no limit to my talent so I created art from nails and string. I knew that if I could draw it, I can string it. Here I am, two years later, I am my childhood dream come true.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No. My journey has been nothing close to smooth. In fact, it’s been pretty scary. Back in 2011, I started to experience excruciating back pain. Pain that sent a rippling effect of discomfort throughout my entire body. For years, doctors couldn’t figure out the cause for my pain. Eventually, I started to experience numbness in my right hand and not long after, my legs were progressively getting weaker. I started to trip over things and then tripping over nothing at all. My symptoms led me to five different neurologists and two neurosurgeons, one of whom discovered that I had a tumor compressing my spinal cord. In 2017 I had major spinal surgery.
After ten hours on an operating table, the tumor was successfully removed. It was later determined to be a benign tumor. I spent the next few months wearing a brace, attending physical therapy, and relearning basics like simply opening a door again. I now have two rods and ten screws in my thoracic spine. Life has so much more meaning this time around. I not only have a second chance at life, but the hands that I almost lost function in, are the hands that I’m using to build the life of my dreams. These hands now create beautiful portraits and bring so much joy to the world, and for that, I thank God every day. Having persevered through my health struggles to now helping others celebrate life, brings me so much joy. I hope my story inspires someone to never give up, because on the other side of your fears, sickness, and pain, is your wildest dreams if you dare to go after it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Contemporary Artist specializing in string art portraits. I’m known for my ability to utilize string art to create hyper realistic portraits of my client’s loved ones and the likeness of celebrities who we’ve all grown to love. String art portraits consists of a few simple materials: a wooden panel that can be painted, wrapped with fabric, or coated with epoxy resin, thousands of small galvanized nails, and a single unbroken sewing thread.
I am most proud of my ability to consistently grow as an artist. I started out creating custom string art name signs through my business, String Hart, while simultaneously being known as an independent portrait artist. It is because of my drive to consistently grow that I’ve identified my true passion. Every day when I wake up, my number one priority is to be a better artist than the one I was yesterday. I’m committed to growing, pushing my skills to the next level, and taking this second chance at life to make God and my family proud.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I don’t believe in luck. I believe in having faith and working relentlessly toward whatever it is that you want out of life. Everything that’s happened to me whether it be personal or in business, has shaped my professionalism, sharpened my skills, and ultimately created the artist that stands before you today. Just like the late Nipsey Hussle said, “Dedication, hard work, plus patience..” luck doesn’t just happen, you have to put in actual work to achieve those things that you desire. My business is the result of my faith and my commitment to hard work, not luck!
Contact Info:
- Email: TaneshaPittArt@gmail.com
- Website: TaneshaPitt.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taneshapitt/
