TINA CHISENA
My artistic inspirations derive from a few main sources - my interest in nature and natural beauty, my scientific background and my intense curiosity about nature, science, technology, and the processes associated with these things.
I always want to know why, how, how to make things, what happens if… etc. Usually someone else’s description of how to make things is not sufficient for me. I want to try things. I am always interested in learning, improving skills, trying new combinations of colors and attempting to push technical boundaries.
Additionally, I have what I refer to as the “tomboy” mentality, which prevents me from thinking that anything is beyond my scope. There are very few things which do not grab my attention and I have an intensely competitive nature. I play several sports and a few musical instruments.
I have a BA in Biology from Bard College, and an Masters in Fine Arts in Metalsmithing and Sculpture from Towson University, a mere 33.5 years between the two degrees. I worked as a research scientist at the National Cancer Institute for 31 years and from which I retired in 2002. I completed my MFA 6 months after my retirement.
Currently I am a member of the Enamelists Gallery in Alexandria, Virginia. I am also a member of the Washington Guild of Goldsmiths, the National Enamelist Guild, the Montgomery County Woodturners, The Artist-Blacksmiths Association of North America, and the Blacksmiths Guild of the Potomac.
