Artist Biography – Juana M. Fernández-HamerJuana M. Fernández-Hamer was born in Cuba in 1966 and spent her early years surrounded by the vibrant culture, color, and spirit of the island. Her family later emigrated, beginning a journey that took them through Spain, Miami, and New York before eventually settling in northern New Jersey. This experience of movement between cultures deeply influences her artistic voice, infusing her work with both emotional depth and visual intensity.
Fernández-Hamer graduated from Memorial High School in West New York, New Jersey, before earning a track and field scholarship to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she met her husband. Together they have built a family with two sons and have shared a marriage since 1995. Alongside her artistic pursuits, she has dedicated her professional life to education, teaching since 2001 and earning two master’s degrees in the field.For Fernández-Hamer, painting is a deeply spiritual act. She describes the creative process as a gift—something divinely placed within her.
When she paints, she feels guided by faith and inspiration, translating emotion and spirit onto canvas through vibrant color and expressive forms.Her work is intended to move people. Each piece is designed to create a visual and emotional experience—one that invites the viewer to pause, reflect, and feel something meaningful. Through her art, Fernández-Hamer hopes to share the beauty of creativity, the power of faith, and the richness of the life journey that continues to shape her work.
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Los lugares lindos de mi gente negra.
"Los lugares lindos de mi gente negra" is a recent project that aims to highlight and celebrate the beautiful places that hold significance within the black community. Through photography, storytelling, and community engagement, this project honors the rich history and culture of black individuals and communities, while also shedding light on the importance of representation and visibility. The project seeks to showcase the diverse and vibrant spaces that hold value and meaning for people of African descent.
