Artist Interview - Roma Osowo
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Roma Osowo and I am an Abstract Artist.
Why do you do what you do?
I paint because I have found it to be the highest form of self-expression. I get to do something that brings me joy and peace while sharing that with many who connect to my work.
What inspires your art?
My art is an extension of my faith. It is a vessel for me to express that faith. My work is also inspired by the vibrant colors of the British Virgin Islands, where I was born and raised.
How has your practice changed over time?
I've learned over time to work on multiple pieces at once, to take frequent breaks so that I could always have fresh eyes on my work, and to be very disciplined with putting in the time to develop my skills and experience.
What's your favorite piece of art that you've created? Why?
One of my favorite pieces is titled "Spring Of Living Water." This was the piece that made me realize that I had huge potential as an artist.
What's the best piece of art advice you've been given?
"It's already inside of you" and "Leave perfection behind" are two of my favorite pieces of art-related advice.
What's one art tip/technique you can share with us that you find really helpful?
Working on multiple pieces at a time really helps to avoid becoming too focused and precious to one particular piece.
Do you have any secret tips or techniques you use to salvage a piece when you make a mistake?
If I feel like I really don't like the direction a piece has taken, I usually glaze over the entire thing which gives me the opportunity to reintroduce the areas I liked and leave behind what I didn't.
What is your favorite Strathmore paper? Why?
My favorite Strathmore paper is by far the Mixed Media 400 series. It is extremely durable and allows me to work with many medias and the sturdy weight of it allows me to use water as well.
What art materials could you not live without?
My favorite art supplies currently are gloss medium, airbrush medium, spray paint, and acrylic liners.
What type of colors are you drawn to for your art and why?
I am drawn to vibrant and bold colors. Teals, blues, and magenta hues are some of my favorites. I believe growing up in the British Virgin Islands has had a huge impact on my color choices. I am drawn to teals and blues that remind me of the ocean, and bright colors that remind me of the gorgeous landscapes and infrastructure.
Who are your biggest influences (or who were when you started doing art)?
Wassily Kandinsky and Henri Matisse were two of my biggest influences early on.
What's the most common art-related question you get from your followers?
Honestly, the most common question I receive is: "Will this be available as a print?"
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