Tessema Meredith-Miller is a multimedia artist of Samoan heritage residing in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts at the Institute of American Indian Arts. Originally from St. George, a small town in Southern Utah, her work is deeply rooted in her Polynesian ancestry and cultural principles, such as the relationship with land and ocean, star navigation, and the importance of community. Meredith explores various mediums, including photography, digital art, drawing, wood carving, and printmaking, to convey her contemporary interpretation of Samoan culture.

ARTIST STATEMENT:

As a modern multidisciplinary artist, my work focuses on intertwining Samoan culture with my personal heritage and experiences. I employ various textures, human forms, and repetitive motifs and patterns to establish a visually engaging balance of texture and shape, drawing inspiration from traditional Samoan tataus (tattoos).

Throughout my childhood, music, dance, and visual arts have played a significant role in my life. The importance of family profoundly influences the intent behind my creations across different media. I am always eager to explore new mediums and integrate my ideas and cultural perspectives into the artistic process. My goal is to continue to represent Samoan culture and educate my audience about the vibrant and enduring traditions of Samoa.