TAMMI JEAN FEDESTIN
Tammi Jean Fedestin (she/her) is a visual artist based in Massachusetts whose practice includes printmaking, collage, and mixed media work. Her surreal and vibrant pieces explore the beauty and humor found in the strange, grotesque, frightful, and sometimes downright traumatic. She holds a BA in Arts Management from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA). While in school, Tammi studied under the letterpress artist Melanie Mowinski and gained a love of bookmaking and printmaking.
As a queer Haitian woman, many expectations were thrust upon Tammi by loved ones, the education system, and society as a whole. As she shifted and changed to become the “perfect, dependable, strong black woman,” she lost her sense of self and discarded her own thoughts and feelings as incorrect. Through her work, Tammi is unveiling and becoming re-acquainted with the hidden aspects of her identity.
Tammi hopes her work will make others feel seen and understood, especially other Haitian girls who may find themselves shifting and changing for the world. She hopes that others will see her work and take on the challenge to find beauty in what they have hidden within themselves.
Instagram: @cosmic_zo
PICK UP THIS PRINT AT The Grove
ARTIST Q&A
Born: Boston, MA
Currently lives: Malden, MA
Title of artwork: Grimsley Hebert Ragabond the Third, Crown Prince of the Muppington Kingdom
What’s it about? This is one of the very few portraits left of the Crown Prince after the Catsberg Empire took over. In his time, Prince Grimsley was beloved by all in the kingdom. With his velvet skin and ivory button eyes, he was highly sought after by the ladies of the court. Unfortunately, little is known regarding his disappearance. One can only hope he managed to escape the takeover with his stuffing intact.
Acrylic paint on 4-inch by 4-inch canvas
Where else can we find your work? On my socials, website, and you local art fairs!
Where is your favorite public art piece in the area? Daniel Anguilu’s mural on the Northeastern campus
Who is your favorite Boston-area artist to follow? Payal Kumar – They have wonderfully detailed pieces rooted in their experience and culture
What’s your favorite way to spend a day off? Either playing games or reading manga
What was your top song for 2023? CTRL by Mysie or ANYTHING Jungle put out last year
Favorite place for food in the Allston/Brighton area? TeaMjoi! Can never say no to bubble tea and taikyaki
What have you learned about your creative practice in recent years? I learned that I like finding ways to make myself giggle while I create. Having fun is key!
What is a piece of advice you would give to your past self as a young artist? Just create what you want to see and don’t overthink it!
What is your dream project to work on? I would love to have a collaborative art project with other artists in the area. Either creating something together or feeding off of each other’s energy as we create.
