Ciao & Welcome!

Welcome to Figs & Famiglia! My works highlight Italian culture, my family's Italian American journey, the extraordinary bonds of family, and the artistry of growing and harvesting fresh produce. I grew up with a large backyard garden surrounded by fruit trees. The garden was my father's pride and joy, and still is, especially his tomato plants, and fig trees of course! We had no irrigation system, so it was my job to move the hose and give just the right tautness or slack to move water down the rows. It was the perfect time for me to ask questions and listen to my father tell stories of his childhood growing up in Italy, his experiences coming of age as an Italian immigrant in the U.S., and his experiences in the sport of wrestling both as a participant and a coach. 

One very impactful memory I have is taking a fig for my very first show & tell in kindergarten. My teacher had no idea what it was, she seemed so confused. I remember feeling embarrassed at the time. But now I know that many people are still new to this luscious, exotic fruit. Figs will always evoke a sense of nostalgia and special memories for me, hence the title of my website, Figs & Famiglia. 

Thanks for visiting. I hope you enjoy what you find here, and "May you never lose your fascination in the magic of a seed." -Tonya Russo Hamilton