In her captivating exhibit titled "Without Saying a Word," Teresa invites viewers to embark on a profound journey into the depths of human emotion and connection. Over the course of a year, she poured her heart and soul into crafting 100 portraits, each one a testament to the intricate tapestry of human experience. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of submitted photographs, Teresa skillfully captured the essence of her subjects, delving into their unique and often complex emotional landscapes.
Through her masterful strokes and keen eye for detail, Teresa invites viewers to peer beyond the surface and into the soul of each individual depicted. In every brushstroke lies a story waiting to be told, a silent narrative that speaks volumes about the human condition. From joy to sorrow, love to longing, her portraits serve as windows into the myriad emotions that unite us all.
In this exhibition, Teresa extends an open invitation to all, urging visitors to forge connections with the images before them. Whether reflecting on their own experiences or empathizing with those of others, viewers are encouraged to explore the common thread of humanity that binds us together. In a world often filled with noise and distraction, "Without Saying a Word" offers a sanctuary for quiet contemplation and heartfelt connection—a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend language and touch the depths of the human soul.
Written by Ken Matheson
Bio
Canadian early-career artist Teresa Selbee-Baker lives and works on Savary Island, BC. A figurative painter working primarily in oil, she draws on photography as both reference and catalyst, creating visual narratives rooted in personal experience, connection, and evolving perspectives of femininity. Through bold colour, portraits, and landscapes, her expressive work invites viewers on a journey of discovery, sparking curiosity and encouraging deeper reflection.
Selbee-Baker’s current work examines how generational influences shape women’s identities, exploring the tension between societal expectations and personal authenticity. Guided by an ongoing sense of inquiry, she engages with questions that often surface before they can be fully articulated—an approach that continues to shape and propel her practice.
She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting and photography from Thompson Rivers University in 2006 and has since continued to pursue learning opportunities that foster growth and artistic development. Selbee-Baker is also an active member of the Rise and Repaint Network, an international collective of women and non-binary visual artists.
Her work has been exhibited in solo and group shows across British Columbia, in Chicago, IL, and in virtual exhibitions that have introduced her art to international audiences. Selbee-Baker’s paintings have been featured in Artist Talk Magazine, Suboart Magazine, Art Seen Magazine, and Women United Magazine. She has been interviewed on CBC Radio’s North by Northwest and was granted a 2025 residency with Atelier Artist in Residence.