Biography

Artist Statement: Eden Tolico

I am a multi-disciplinary horror artist based in the Bay Area, specializing in handmade apparel and fiber art that explores themes of identity, transformation, and the visceral tension between beauty and discomfort. My work is deeply rooted in my trans experience, using auditory and visual stimuli to evoke a wide range of emotions—pushing boundaries and inviting a diverse range of reactions. Through my pieces, I seek to create a space where discomfort becomes a tool for deeper understanding and reflection.

I received my bachelor's degree in Art with a focus on Fashion & Textile Design from California State University: Los Angeles, where I honed my passion for creating with longevity and quality at the forefront. My work is not only about aesthetics; it is about crafting wearable pieces and fiber art that challenge conventional norms, incorporating elements of horror and the uncanny to make the viewer reconsider their notions of beauty, identity, and the body. 

In 2024, I joined the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) as the Visitor Experience Supervisor, where I continue to explore and expand the narratives around my work, blending my personal journey with larger conversations about culture and perception. Each piece I create is a reflection of my ongoing exploration of self and the world around me, using my medium to provoke thought, confront fears, and spark dialogue. Through my art, I strive to create moments of discomfort that lead to transformation, pushing myself and others to examine the darker, hidden corners of our experiences.