My name is Tamiko, and I am a self‑taught artist fueled by a deep passion for visual expression. As a Black woman artist, my work stands as an unapologetic platform for activism, storytelling, and unity. I create with intention—using art as a catalyst for dialogue, a challenge to limiting perspectives, and an invitation toward collective action for a more inclusive and equitable society.

 

My love for art sparked long before I understood its full meaning. Growing up in the inner city of Rochester, New York, I was shaped by the energy of graffiti, the pulse of Hip‑Hop culture, and the resilience of people striving for a brighter tomorrow. I experienced what we now call Black Joy long before it had a name. Beauty revealed itself in unexpected places—faded flyers on corner‑store windows, the rhythm of passing conversations, even the glimmering grains of a worn sidewalk. While the 6 o’clock news often highlighted the struggles of lower‑income neighborhoods, I learned to see the quiet brilliance woven into every story and every face around me.

 

As I grew older, I became more aware of the societal forces shaping our communities and our world. Racism, misogyny, homophobia, redlining, and other forms of discrimination began to surface with sharper clarity. Living through the height of the AIDS crisis and witnessing the Los Angeles riots on my television screen, I started to understand the complexities of our human family—its beauty, its fractures, and its capacity for both harm and healing.

 

These experiences form the canvas of my artistic vision. When I finally gathered the courage to embrace my calling as a visual artist, I made a promise to myself: to create art that is accessible, meaningful, and rooted in truth.

 

Every piece I create is a slice of my voice. My hope is that my work resonates deeply with those who connect to my style and the emotional landscapes I explore.

 

I invite you to explore my collection, discover works that speak to you, and bring that sense of connection, boldness, and visual storytelling into your space.