Yemaya is an artist whose work is influenced by the ecological landscape of the Pacific Northwest, which is the unceded ancestral land of the Coast Salish Peoples. Rooted in Seattle, her practice reflects a deep engagement with place and environment. Her experiences studying abroad and teaching art in Bangkok and Hawai‘i have contributed to an evolving visual language shaped by movement, adaptation, and connection.

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.