Tess Sherman is a local artist and business co-owner of Bluestone Bodyworks. For Art Lotto #4 Tess will be portraying Dinah Mitchell. And Soula Pefkaros will be portraying Tess. After meeting with both of her Art Lotto partners, she reflects a bit on each of her female partners.
Where did you meet your partner for the first time?
I met Soula, whom is doing my portrait, at Shenandoah coffee for the first time. Then I met Dinah Mitchell, who I’m doing a portrait of, at Black sheep coffee.

Tell me about your first impression of your partner.
Soula has this light that radiates from her. I could tell just by first impression she had only good vibes, and a heart of gold. Honestly one of the most down to earth people to have ever met.
Dinah was super shy at first. But I must say I was too. Once we got to talking we both got through that awkward first date tension, ha. Super sweet and laid back though. And I’m lucky enough to capture such a beautiful lady for my portrait.
Where have you found inspiration for your portrait?
Dinah works with beads and glass blowing, which is totally the furthest material I have ever wanted to work with, but I wanted to test myself and try to incorporate beading into my portrait. Using what I love, oil paint, with a love of hers, beading, I believe my portrait portrays both of us.
Why did you sign up for Art Lotto?
Because Brandy forced me to….just kidding. Haha but really, Brandy {Somers} mentioned art lotto to me and I’m not usually one to do these kinds of things but I’ve been wanting to broaden my art in the community hoping I can find new opportunities through the lotto. Not to mention to meet and learn from amazing artist in Harrisonburg.

Is there a local business you can commonly be found? And what might you be found doing there?
It seems both of my {lotto} partners, as well as I, enjoy coffee so most likely you could find us at any of the coffee shops. I could see Soula working on editing photos, and Dinah looking at new material for her work. I would probably be taking in the scenery, sipping on a chai, trying to figure out what mechanical tool I could turn into a human form. But i guarantee you that at least one of us would be scarfing down a pastry.
What are some of your other interests, loves, passions, roles in life?
I crave the outdoors. There is so much art in nature that not many see. I believe/see trees to be like human bodies. I like to think they come alive when no ones looking. I’m passionate about that, seriously. I love cats…I’m THAT crazy cat lady, no lie. I have a dream of having a cat farm. Some think I’m crazy but I like to think it’s love.
Also, my role as a massage therapist has honestly opened my eyes to how much I love helping others by making them feel great, or more comfortable with themselves. That’s a big accomplishment.