Tess Forte is a multidisciplinary artist whose work navigates spiritual abstraction, human connection, and the energetic weight of language. With nearly three decades of experience as a professional writer and creative director, Tess infuses her visual practice with a sophisticated understanding of storytelling, esoteric knowledge, and often clandestine word play. Her creative journey is deeply informed by her roles as a Reiki Master, Tarot reader, and yoga and mindfulness teacher, as well as ongoing studies of philosophy, psychology, human design, sacred geometry, myths, and fairy tales—disciplines and academic fields that breathe life into her signature style of “spiritual minimalism.” Born and raised in the outer boroughs of New York City, Tess’s work often reflects the gritty realism and rapid-fire energy of NYC culture in the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, as well as themes from her Italian heritage and Roman Catholic upbringing.

Utilizing pencil, ink, paint, collage, and mixed media, Tess’s work is characterized by a “people-first” philosophy, seeking to uncover the unseen threads that bind the personal to the collective. By blending professional precision with a meditative studio practice, she creates resonant, empathetic art that challenges the digital noise of modern life.

Tess is a passionate advocate for the therapeutic use of the arts in healing, trauma recovery, self-discovery, and personal transformation, recognizing and evangelizing the arts as the “fifth pillar” of mental, physical, and emotional health. Certified to teach yoga and mindfulness to children and teens, she is the founder of Calliope Creative Arts and Yoga, where she engages and guides young people to cultivate joy and build resilience through mindful movement and artistic expression. She is also a paraeducator in Tamaques Elementary School in Westfield.

Tess resides in Cranford with her three beautiful, talented children who inspire her every day.