Born in Vancouver Teresa started her art education at Largara College then moved on to complete a BFA from NSCAD University on the other side of the country. Post graduation she cycled and hiked to Dawson City, Yukon for an artist residency through KIAC (Klondike Institute
of Art and Culture). In love with the place and the boy she met there, she stayed for a winter, built a kiln on a rock pile, converted a broken bus to a studio and set to work.
Upon returning to Nova Scotia she continued her practice in Halifax, until she established a home studio near Chester where she now lives with her husband, their three children and a fluctuating flock of chickens.
Bergen’s work was selected for the Art Bank Purchase Award, is part of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s permanent collection as well as private collections around the world. She is a recipient of Arts Nova Scotia creation grants and Medalta’s Strojich Fellowship. Major commissions include Tea Train for the Kamm Teapot collection, an interpretation of the Cinderella story for
Cinderella’s Castle in Tokyo and the Founder’s Tree. Teresa’s work has been exhibited across Canada and the US and at SOFA Chicago.
Artist Statement
I make figurative ceramic sculpture, impractical toys and kinetic art. Primarily a handbuilder, I love the process of bringing clay to life and adorning my surfaces with pattern, colour and texture. Referencing mythology and folklore I tell personal stories. I am interested in the push
and pull of emotions and their power over actions both creative and destructive. When I work, I aim to create something extraordinary that evokes emotion and a connection with others.
