Hi! I’m Tal.

I'm an artist, photographer, herbalist, mother, and occasional designer currently based on Karankawa, Ishak, Sana, Esto’k Gna, and Coahuiltecan territories (Houston, Texas). I’ve been tending to themes of solastalgia, monolithic natural composition, and other as self. Gazing and listening deeply.

My development as a photographer began at the age of eleven, though my relationship with art and nature began with drawing, painting, movement, and open Texas fields since early childhood. My experience varies across different fields — from portraits, interior/architecture photography, nature photography and photojournalism, to different realms of design — all of which influence one another. I view photography and design as blank canvases, that is to say, more as a medium in which to make art. I am quietly re-building my drawing & painting portfolio.

Over the summer of 2024 I hosted my first photo show ‘Solastalgia & What Lies Beyond’ involving work spanning the previous six years. We sipped on oatstraw, tulsi & calendula, hibiscus, lemongrass, and raspberry leaf tisanes, and natural red wine — all while Pretty Dad live scored the gallery with experimental sounds. I am still selling custom prints from this show, which you can view here. I love seeing this work in so many friends’ homes. A follow-up show with variations of pieces will be in the near future.

꩜ I started writing again — subscribe to my Substack! ꩜

If you’re interested in a booking a shoot with me, hiring me for design work, getting a custom print, or just want to chat, use the contact sheet below or email maddiemckowen@gmail.com.