King Tammy

Article by Tekonwakwenni Nanticoke
Indian Time Vol 30#34
August 20, 2012

Painting, sculpting and drawing are just a few of the many forms of art that numerous Akwesasronon have done in the past. Tammy King is one of the few that were given the skill to create in more than one art form. A triple threat, Tammy stitches together beautiful quilts and ribbon dresses, paints vibrant and colouful images, and captures stunning portraits and scenic photographs.

Tammy Renee Catherine Kahentison King, born in Cornwall and raised in Akwesasne, began creating beautiful artwork at the age of 26. Through the hardships that Tammy has faced throughout her life, she had always believed that creating art was her gift to share with the world.

Tammy's quilts are recognized all over for their choice of color and the imagery that captures Kanienkeha culture. Some of her quilts contain famous imagery including the Tree of Peace, and also the 9 clans of the Hotinonsonni.

In her paintings, Tammy utilizes a wide spectrum of mediums. A master using an airbrush, Tammy uses vivid colors to create striking paintings that encompass the richness that is our culture. She draws inspiration from her dreams and her spiritual openness.

Tammy's use of an ordinary bristle brush allows her to create extraordinary oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings. Her paintings tell many stories including the balance between life and death and the struggle that many Onkwehonwe go through. She also combines beadwork in her paintings of flowers. Tammy signs her gorgeous paintings with the nickname she was given as a child. Bumblebee can be seen on the canvas.
Tammy takes orders and can be reached either by email (bumblebeesart@yahoo.com) or by phone (518-358-4586).