Terezinha Fernandes was born in Goiás, Brazil, in 1983 with arthrogryposis, a condition affecting the development of her limbs. Inspired by watching her mother paint as a child, she developed an early fascination with colour, drawing and artistic expression, beginning her own painting journey at the age of twelve.

Known affectionately as “Tetê”, she later studied at the Escola Oswaldo Verano in Anápolis and continued developing her skills through private tuition. Her passion for learning and creativity has led her to participate in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition both within Brazil and internationally.