Strength of spirit dominates Teal's emergence as a world artist over the last 20 years. As a native of the South and raised in a bilingual home with European influences, she attained a unique world perspective of life early on. Her foundation in artistic studies began at the University of Minnesota in the 70s, continued at the Seattle School of Visual Concepts in the early 80s, and culminated in a Master's Degree in painting at Western Carolina University in 1988. In 1991, she found a new home in Switzerland where she maintained a studio until 1997, and continued to show her work at both European and American galleries and museums. In 1997, she returned to the States and continued to travel internationally. In 2002, she was invited to Cuba under a residency and teaching program. In 2005, Teal again relocated to Switzerland, where she currently maintains her studio, and returns frequently to the U.S. Her work continues to be enriched by opportunities to work and study worldwide through residencies and fellowships, and as a guest lecturer.