Art Convo with Sophia Oshodin: Painting Joy and Strength as Everyday Practices
The artist Sophia Oshodin in front of her paintings. Photo by Jennifer. O.
A sweet chat with London-based Nigerian artist Sophia Oshodin (she/her), whose acrylic paintings make me swoon, where in the everyday scenarios present in her work, Black womxn always live joyfully and fully.
What are the simple things that made you smile this month?
Being alive and healthy. I also completed some pieces I started months ago and that put a smile on my face.
Can you describe an ideal day in your studio? What needs to align for you -- spiritually, mentally, and physically -- for a productive day?
My day at the studio usually starts with music to set the mood. I spend time with my rough drawings to decide which piece to work on or finish. I then move on to colour selection until I’m happy to start painting. My mood aligns with how my day goes.
What awe Talking About. Acrylic on canvas, 2022. Courtesy of the artist.
Good Times. Acrylic on Canvas. 2021. Courtesy of the artist.
You depict Black womxn doing everyday things with whimsy, softness, and vulnerability. Why is this important?
This is important to me because my subjects convey a message of joy and strength in a radical space where Black women hold moments of vulnerability through lived experiences, and keep those beautiful moments present.
Your love for fashion, wardrobe patterns, designer logos, and jewel-tone colours really shine through in your paintings. What role does fashion play in your work in relationship to Black womxn?
Growing up, the Black women who inspired me tried their best to look stylish with what they had. I bring that inspiration to my work and fashion adds to the beauty of colour as it exists in Black women, places, and the community. I once had a fashion blog and worked as a stylist years ago, so fashion is a huge part of my work.
“This is important to me because my subjects convey a message of joy and strength in a radical space where Black women hold moments of vulnerability through lived experiences, and keep those beautiful moments present.”
Tell Me More II. Acrylic on Canvas, 2022. Courtesy of the artist.
This is Not An Invitation. Acrylic on Canvas. 2021. Courtesy of the artist.
What's next for the rest of 2022 and into 2023? Anything you can share?
I currently have an ongoing solo exhibition, ‘Hope In the Corridors Of Chaos’, with Free Space Project in London until December 31st. I look forward to planning a second solo exhibition for 2023.
