WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
Hello. I am Tiffany of T Madera a collector, curator, and crafter. I am a native of Augusta and currently reside in Atlanta, GA. I create wearable art and home accessories.

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
My process is a mixture of Media and Collage created with love, care and a flare of creativity.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
My collecting and creative inspiration has its roots in the school and home. Growing up in Augusta, I remember collecting dolls and entering them in the Richmond Country Doll Shows at the Recreation Center. I once created a collage that won an award while in grade school and by the time I was in high school, I had collected numerous dolls that were given to me as presents which represented different countries all over Central America, Europe and Africa. I later enrolled in Art History and Ceramic classes at Hampton University; and my Instructor, Ampofo-Anti, told me the incising on my hand-constructed piece reminded him of Adinkra symbols used by the Akan people in West Africa. Little did I know that later in 2013, I would have the opportunity to travel to Ghana and experience stamping an Adinkra symbol on turquoise and green woven cloth that I would use on my present-day dining room buffet, as well as on my front door.

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I love jewelry! Three of my most treasured pieces of jewelry were given to me by my mother. These included a handcrafted sterling silver pendant, a bracelet and a ring signed by Dave B. My mother purchased these handcrafted items from Eclectic Design Gallery located in Augusta, GA. I loved the collection of art, jewelry and furniture featured in Andrea Stanton’s business that was in Downtown Augusta in the 90s.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
My favorite things about Downtown Augusta are Artist Row and going to the Westobou and Arts in Heart Festivals. I love the way Art is expressed in different businesses. 1. I see Art in the beautiful hats at Nan’s Collections, Augusta, Georgia 2. I love the beautiful floral designs and arrangements created at Nyias Gallery, Augusta, GA

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
At the heart of every design and my desire to make and create has always been the family, godparents and teachers that have shared their loving gifts with me over the years. I have observed how my family and neighbors have personally designed and crafted items for the home as well as items to be worn.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
When creating something – “Go with the flow! Always and foremost, just go with the flow! There are never, ever mistakes; just reflect, regroup and go for it!”

I am very grateful for family, teachers and churches that have provided inspiration and outlets for me through experience, art, and travel. I am eternally grateful and blessed.