Today we’d like to introduce you to Abiola Wabara.
Hi Abiola, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in Parma, Italy, by Nigerian parents. I have been creating art ever since I was able to hold a pencil, but I started to pour more into my artistry when my professional basketball career started. During my 10 years professional career, while playing in various European countries, my art was a constant companion. I was lucky enough to be able to show work in Italy, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina and was also featured on the cultural section of the newspaper in Ibiza, Spain. Today I am trying to reach new audiences and create artwork people can see their selves and their stories in.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I have always had a great support system around my artwork, but it is sometimes difficult to grow in a consistent way, or to always have motivation to create new work.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
My artwork is full of vibrant colors, I tend to create portraits that focus on the eye of my subjects and often depict women, in all of their strength and beauty. My subject matter stemmed from the fact that while growing up in Italy, I didn’t see many that looked like me, and that inspired me to create what I saw as beautiful in being a black woman. Even though my subjects are not exclusively black women, they are definitely the core of my artistic vision and story. I also truly enjoy using mixed media, and it is not unusual to see pieces with three-dimensional elements to bring them to life, such as traditional African cloth or flowers.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Talk to people that are where you want to be, ask questions and be willing to take advice. Participate in as many group shows as you can when you first start out, but also share what you know!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artbyabiola.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbyabiola/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artbyabiola/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/artbyabiola
