Tatiana Henao: Capturing Heartfelt Connections Through Sculpture
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Tatiana Henao @tatistouch_art is a self-taught artist from Colombia who found her true calling in the heart of New York City. Despite starting her career as a zootechnician, her passion for art led her on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and creativity. Since childhood, Tatiana showed an innate talent for art, which blossomed into a profound love for sculpting during an art project involving clay. Her first sculpture, a cow, sparked an unquenchable passion for creating lifelike representations of animals, particularly pets.
Tatiana’s creative journey officially began when she moved to New York with big dreams and a desire to learn English. The pandemic became a pivotal moment for her, pushing her to pursue her dreams relentlessly. She founded "Tati's Touch Art," a project dedicated to sculpting pets and wild animals for animal lovers. This project holds a special place in her heart, allowing her to connect deeply with clients and their beloved pets, creating sculptures that capture their essence and stories.
Tatiana’s artwork is inspired by the beauty of nature and the deep bond between humans and their pets. Each sculpture is a tribute to the love, adventures, and sometimes the mourning and healing associated with pet ownership. The stories behind each pet provide a wellspring of motivation, driving her to create pieces that resonate with her clients on a soulful level. Her goal is simple yet profound: to craft sculptures that evoke joy and create lasting connections.
Tatiana’s creative process is both meditative and ritualistic. Before she begins sculpting, she engages in a short meditation to center her mind and hands. She then lights a candle to enliven the space and immerses herself in music, setting the perfect ambiance for her creativity to flow. This routine helps her enter a state of mindfulness, where each detail of her sculpture comes to life with purpose and precision.
Tatiana's unique art style is characterized by her love for animals. Her sculptures, primarily made from air-dry clay or stone clay, capture the intricate beauty and personality of each animal she portrays. After the clay dries, she meticulously paints the sculptures with acrylic paint, bringing them to life with vibrant colors. Finally, she places each finished piece in a frame, enhancing its presentation and adding a personal touch.
Like many artists, Tatiana faced significant challenges, particularly the fear of showcasing her art and the inevitable comparisons with other artists. Overcoming these fears required bravery and self-belief. She learned to embrace her unique talent and found joy in making others happy through her art. Continuous practice and connecting with a community of artists have been instrumental in keeping her motivated and inspired.
Currently, Tatiana is focused on creating personalized pet sculptures for her clients, each piece reflecting the unique bond between the pet and its owner. She is also preparing to showcase her artwork in upcoming exhibitions, eager to share her heartfelt creations with a broader audience.
Tatiana Henao Gil’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion, no matter the obstacles. Her sculptures are not just art; they are soulful creations that celebrate the profound connection between humans and their beloved animals. As she continues to evolve as an artist, her work promises to touch even more hearts, one sculpture at a time.