Biography

When you look at the art of Tamara Madden, you see the synthesis of expression informed by her love for her Jamaican homeland. This Jamaican heritage was a source of inspiration throughout her work. Simply stated, Tamara's work is about being human. The integrity and dignity of the everyday man and woman elevated to icons and heroes, which express their spirit, force of the strength and determination that is evident in the life of us all.

"At home, we never thought of color”, she stated in an interview. "We are a mixed-race people, and very proud of our African Heritage and whatever else.”

Tamara Natalie Madden grew up on the island of (St. Andrew) Jamaica, where she was born with dark skin to a mother of light skin - a fact she said informed a good deal of her artistic decisions.

Growing up in Manchester Jamaica, Madden was exposed to art from a young age. Her Mother was a writer and photographer, and her uncles were what she called 'raw' artists. They were "Rastas" who sculpted and drew. Tamara stated that one of her Uncles was actually her very first artistic inspiration.

Tamara spent her teenage years in Madison Wisconsin. During high school she focused on literature, photography and creative writing, experimenting with ways to express her creative impulses.

In 1997, Tamara was diagnosed with a rare genetic kidney disease called IGA Nephropathy. The next few years were very difficult as the disease ravished her body. In order to keep some semblance of normality, she turned to her art.

In 2000, Tamara returned to her beloved Jamaica in hopes of reuniting with her family and finding her long lost brother. She thought this might be the last time in her life to see them. She had no idea that the trip would save her life. Her brother offered his kidney once he saw the condition that she was in. In 2001, Tamara underwent a successful kidney transplant courtesy of her brother. That same year, she participated in her first art exhibition, making good on the promise that she had made to herself a long time ago to become a practicing artist.