HOW WE GOT STARTED

A few like-minded artists decided to come together to create an artist collective focused on their work which ranges from fashion design to mixed media collage. Arternativez is a place to purchase original artwork, prints, and goods that speak to a cultural conversation in which the artist engages. As artists, we are often called on to create that moment, interpret sweet memories, envision a new reality, and inspire change. You can admire it, wear it, or respond to it, and know that we'll love it. Because that's where we begin, and it never ends...love.

Artist Tammy Fenton

"Incites reflection, inspires love and engaging conversation"

Tammy Fenton was born and raised in the city of Boston, MA to Caribbean immigrant parents. She received most of her schooling in the suburbs and neighboring towns. As a little girl, Tammy enjoyed depicting these worlds through her drawings, a passion which led to her self-education in many forms of art. Later, Tammy relocated to Washington, DC where she began to explore painting and mixed media collage while pursuing a career in the nonprofit sector.

Tammy Fenton’s art embodies critical conversations around culture as she celebrates her community. Tammy explores the dichotomies in society, challenges viewers to question their role, and engages them in a dialogue of social consciousness. Tammy’s influences range from Paul Gaugin to Paul Goodnight with a special admiration for the courageousness of artists Jean Basquiat and Chandra Dieppa Ortiz.

Connecting to the Spirit of the person in the portrait and their experience is critical to her figurative work. Often, a haiku, a story, or a shared reflection on another’s story accompanies her work.  It is from this emotional response that Tammy is inspired to create. Pieces that reflect the history, evolution or aspirations of this character are gathered for months before it ends up in a collage. Drawn to the depth and relationship of objects and colors, and the emotions they evoke, Tammy’s art moves her audience to reflect, to engage in conversation, and to be inspired to love.