My process begins with drawing inspiration from everyday observations, memories, and moments captured in photographs. Through varied mediums, I weave these elements together, laying the groundwork for an exploration of space and color. These studies then serve as references for the development of larger oil paintings. My artistic practice also involves the integration of multiple figures within each composition, a process honed through the observation and portrayal of the human form from life.

In addition to being a current MFA candidate in the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s Low-Residency Program, Yemaya studied conceptual tendencies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague and received her BA in The Comparative History of Ideas from the University of Washington. Alongside her academic pursuits, Yemaya shares her passion for creativity and self-expression as a fiber arts teacher. Yemaya grew up in Seattle Washington and Zurich Switzerland. For the past ten years, she has lived and taught art in Bankok, Honolulu, and Seattle. Her paintings are rooted in both observation and imagination, and adapt to her location.