To coincide with Earth Day 2017 we welcome back Florida artist Tes One who returns with his latest release Bee Aware. The latest in Tes One’s Natural Instincts series, this edition — available in Standard and Hand-Embellished Editions — calls to attention the dwindling population of bees that once thrived on the planet. Read on as Tes One gives us the story behind this print and more behind this print for Earth Day 2017 . . .
1xRUN: Tell us a little bit about this piece, anything immediate you would like us to highlight about this image?
Tes One: While most media are distracted with gossip and tabloids, the bee population in the US has plunged 90% since the 1990s. This past January, a bumblebee species has been placed on the endangered spices list for the first time.
I created “Bee Aware” to highlight how beautiful and fragile our eco-system truly is – and if bees are on the brink of extinction, so are we.
1x: Was this image part of a recent theme, series or show that you had? If so how did it fit into that given grouping?
Tes One: Yes, this is the latest edition to a series I started years ago, titled Natural Instincts. A series that explores multiple perspectives in the natural world. Just when I think that I’m done with the series, I’m inspired to create another one.
Bee Aware – Standard Edition by Tes One – Click To Purchase
1x: When was this piece created and what materials were used?
Tes One: Acrylic on wood panel and it was created about 2 months ago in March of 2017.
1x: Tell us how the idea and execution came about for this image?
Tes One: I’ve been intrigued by Colony Collapse Disorder since I first heard about it years ago. A crisis that doesn’t get nearly the attention it should. Finally discover the right way for me to address it in my work.
Bee Aware – Hand-Embellished Edition by Tes One – Click To Purchase
1x: How long did this image take to create from start to finish?
Tes One: Once the concept was sorted out, executing the painting moved quickly. I have the painting completed in 1 day.
1x: What is unique about this piece compared with your other work?
Tes One: I would say the entire series is unique from my other work, simply by how stark and minimal that are. In addition to being a painter, I am also a graphic designer, and these disciplines often overlap in my work.
Bee Aware – Original Artwork by Tes One – Click To Purchase
1x: Why should people buy this one of these prints?
Tes One: This is a piece intended to inform and hopefully spark conversations. Spread the awareness and save the bees!
1x: Describe this image in one gut reaction word.
Tes One: Beware.
1x: It’s been a minute since our last release with you, what have you been up to? How have things been going on your side?
Tes One: A lot of new work happening in the studio right now that I’m really happy with (more info on that soon), and between my painting and design work, busy planning out the next SHINE Mural Festival in St. Petersburg FL.
1xRUN: Where else can people find you?
Tes One: Website – Instagram + Facebook @tesone
-1xRUN