Fernanda Fróes proposal for Feria Clandestina is a series of works that can be divided into Brazilwood and Mangrove. Both are endangered species in Brazil and US that must be protected and preserved. Brazilwood works are about my connections with my original home, Brazil. The Mangrove works represent the recent roots connecting me with my new homeland: Miami. Both are essential representations of the feeling of belonging, transiting from different places, like immigrating to a foreign country but still preserving my identity. The motel, being a place of transit, symbolizes the feeling of impermanency present in my work. The Seven Seas Motel is one of the oldest buildings in Miami’s historical center. My pieces carry historical context and degradation, aspects that resonate with the atmosphere of the building. I will occupy a small room with four series of works.

My artwork takes a critical view of environmental and colonization aspects. Often referencing natural history, I research the relationship between humans, their identity, and their heritage in the Americas. I bring attention to the importance of environmental and anthropological preservation as a contemporary urgency and investigate subjects related to colonialism and identity. Through diverse media, I construct visual narratives where materiality is essential in my work.

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