Teresita Leal
Artist Bio
Born in 1958 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, I continue to live and work in my hometown, where my diverse career bridges the realms of science and art. I earned a degree in Biochemistry and hold a doctorate in Physiology, dedicating 15 years to teaching and research at the university level. When I chose to devote more time to my daughters, I embarked on a transformative journey into textile art.
My artistic path was ignited when I joined a group of expatriate women, primarily American, who met weekly to quilt, driven by a passion for preserving their cultural identity and traditions. It was love at first sight. At that time, patchwork and quilting were virtually unknown in Argentina, offering endless opportunities for exploration and innovation.
Over the years, shifting towards textile art, I have organized numerous shows and exhibitions, continuously expanding my skills through books, online resources, and guidance from distinguished teachers at international festivals. For over twenty years, I have also taught workshops in my studio as well as at festivals in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil (Gramado), and the United Kingdom (Birmingham).
I am an active member of several professional organizations, including SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates), CAAT (Centro Argentino de Arte Textil), and SAAP (Sociedad Argentina de Artistas Plásticos), regularly participating in their exhibitions and activities. My art quilts have been showcased at quilt festivals and art salons in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, the US, and across Europe.
In addition to my solo practice, I am a proud member of the textile artist groups Viewpoints and 20 Perspectives, and I am represented by Juana de Arte art gallery in Buenos Aires.