Page 8 - Spring 2022

Story by Nancy Hansford
Leaving a big city to settle down in a small town can be a tough transition for some, but not for Theresa Gorman.
Ten years ago, she fell in love and moved from Atlanta, where she worked as a paralegal, to Watkinsville with her husband, their four kids and several pets. Instead of legal work, Theresa pursues her creative passion, selling handcrafted folk art at local shops and festivals.
“After I moved here, I sat down one day and decided to paint little characters on an old shelf we found,” Theresa said. “I painted a little squirrel, an owl and some other little things. It was very whimsical and fun. I had no idea I could do that. I’m a creative person, but I didn’t know I could paint at all.”
Theresa never imagined these simple animal paintings could lead to her own business. Most of her work is acrylic on repurposed wood and various recycled materials, giving it a rustic appearance that fits with the theme of nature and animals.
Her two cats, two dogs, four hermit crabs, 16 chickens and several fish often inspire her sought-after animal paintings.
Theresa considers her art less of a job and more of a hobby that she can enjoy with her husband, Todd Looney, who is also artistically inclined. They share a love of quirky art and attend many craft fairs together, drawing inspiration for their next pieces and even selling a few of their own.
Theresa focuses on animals and landscapes, Todd paints
Photos by Michael Prochaska
mainly cars. This artistic couple met for the first time at a Starbucks in Loganville. At the time, Todd was living in Watkinsville with his two children, Alexander and Eric, and running a family dental firm.
After two years of dating, they decided it was time to take the next step and move to Watkinsville.
“Oconee County schools are great, and everyone I have met has been so kind,” she said. “The boys made wonderful friends out here and have really flourished.”
Theresa also found herself diving into new hobbies.
From art to gardening
Within a year of living here, Theresa and Todd planted a small garden that they have been tending to ever since. Last summer, they grew eggplants, tomatoes, various peppers, squash, watermelons, okra, blueberries and more in their greenhouse and backyard.
Theresa loves being able to provide fresh produce and eggs for her family and neighbors.
“I like knowing that no pesticides have been on our vegetables,” Theresa said.
The couple researches natural alternatives to avoid using chemicals, and they reduce waste by composting.
Artistic couple finds joy
in gardening
The Gorman-Looney family enjoy spending time outdoors. From left, Todd Looney, who is Theresa Gorman’s husband; his youngest son, Eric Looney; Theresa; her oldest son Chandler Gorman; and Todd’s oldest son, Alex Looney. Dogs Charlie and Katie are also integral to the family portrait.
sNancy Belle Hansford is a freelance writer in Watkinsville and the owner of Watkinsville Wines. PAGE 6 | OCONEE THE MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022