Yemaya is an artist whose work is profoundly influenced by the ecological landscape of the Pacific Northwest, situated on the unceded lands of the Coast Salish Peoples. Raised between Seattle, Washington, and Zurich, Switzerland, her artistic vision has been shaped by a rich diversity of environments and experiences. Having recently lived and taught art in Bangkok, Honolulu, and Seattle, each location has contributed to her evolving understanding. Yemaya recently completed her MFA through the Low-Residency Program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She also studied conceptual tendencies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague and holds a BA in Comparative History of Ideas from the University of Washington. In addition to her artistic practice, Yemaya fosters creativity and self-expression as a fiber arts teacher at a Waldorf school.

My work is an exploration of the intricate relationships between memory, the human body, and the natural world. Drawing from everyday observations, personal memories, and photographs, I create visual narratives that reflect the vulnerabilities and connections of both humans and the environment. I am particularly drawn to the ecologies of the Pacific Northwest, where old-growth forests meet the kelp forests of the Salish Sea. In this space, I focus on the plants and creatures that inhabit the region. Through varied mediums, I weave these elements together, starting with small studies that focus on space, color, and form. These investigations culminate in larger oil paintings that emphasize the human figure and the landscapes that shape us. At the heart of my current practice is an exploration of the seaweed, a vital element in marine ecosystems. It serves as a symbol of ecological resilience, reminding us of the fragile balance within our environment. My paintings reflect a meditation on climate grief and a celebration of resilience.