Interview

Apr 23

Sadia Perry

Sadia is a mixed media artist whose creations are born from the intricate dance of cultures, mentors, music, and the beating rhythm of her heart. She only creates originals. Sadia does not do prints or reproductions of her work. That is because she celebrates the individuality of every single human in the world. The main reason she is an artist is for her connection to other people in this world. Then there is the "happy" feeling she brings to the people who have decided to give her art a place in their personal spaces!

Sadia’s ever-evolving artistic journey started when she was a child. She was born in Dhaka, Bangladesh but her family moved to the UK when she was two months old. Her formative years span continents, from the cobblestone streets of Durham, UK to the bustling lifestyle of Asia (Bangladesh) and the expansive landscapes of North America. Sadia finally decided to make the US her home. Moving to do her Undergrad and Grad studies in Psychology. Studying under a myriad of artists, both privately and in academic settings, has been a transformative voyage, enriching her artistic language and infusing her work with a depth that transcends borders. From each mentor, Sadia gleaned not only technical prowess but also a profound appreciation for the silent poetry that resides within each stroke. They encouraged her to create her style, her techniques, and her voice in the art world. They encouraged her to learn from them and the greatest of artists. Sadia’s teachers encouraged her to make "her kind" of art. The kind that comes from the heart and dreams. Never to imitate anyone ever. Her art is a symphony of joy, intrigue, and empowerment - an ode to the universal language of emotion. As a mixed media artist, she weaves textures, colors, and stories, creating pieces that resonate with the heart and soul. Each creation is a testament to the diverse influences that have shaped her, inviting viewers into a realm where cultures converge and emotions intertwine. Sadia’s work has unexpectedly become a conduit for connection with collectors. It brings her immense joy to know that her art resonates personally, evoking happiness, intrigue, and empowerment. In the harmonious dialogue between creator and collector, Sadia finds a profound connection that surpasses the boundaries of language, transcending the canvas to create a shared experience of beauty and meaning. Happiness and intrigue, are central themes in her work, and takes on a multifaceted hue. It is the celebration of cultural diversity, the acknowledgment of shared humanity, and the recognition of the strength found in vulnerability. Her art invites viewers to navigate the realms of happiness, intrigue, and empowerment, fostering a space where the heart can feel and interpret. As she continues to explore the boundless possibilities of mixed media art, she invites you to join her in this visual expedition. Step into a world where the colors are vivid, the textures are tactile, and the narratives are as diverse as the global landscapes that have shaped me. In every creation, you will find a piece of Sadia’s heart and soul - a gift to the world, an invitation to connect, and a celebration of the beauty that emerges when art is crafted with authenticity and passion.

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“My background is in Psychology. The love of art started when I was quite young. I remember my father getting me a set of plasticine, some crayons and of course a set of watercolors. I found the gift confusing, because I had never asked for the supplies. I did however, love going on walks with my father. We'd go to art museums, cathedrals, churches, or just walk about confounded by the beauty of nature and also the architecture of Durham UK. I had always created art, during school it was a requirement, I loved every single art class I took. I loved that the teachers always wanted me to go to art school. But my parents did not allow it. So, I went into Psychology. In 2017, I decided to take up art professionally. I submitted some of my works and made a deal with the Universe that if I made X amount of money, I would make art full time. Well, I made more than I had hoped for. So, the Universe gave me the final push I needed to believe in myself. I still sometimes, doubt my abilities. But then my collectors always give me hope. I do believe I have created an art experience that is very new to most people. Some say it's other worldly, meditative, cool, happy, empowering. Whichever piece they have, I get emails from my collectors saying "just hanging with your art and feeling great" among other compliments I never imagined.”

What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?

“I don't like political or social issues. I aim for the heart and soul. The overall well being of one's self. I feel I am not here to be swayed by any issues other than making people feel that you are a special human. You're here for a reason. So, let's all rise up and be our best selves. When I make my pieces, I am not present in this world. It is almost as if I have transcended to another place or another time. I call it "zoning out." I don't speak, but I do have music on. I'm not in control of what I do when I'm making my pieces. When I look at the piece after I have worked on it for awhile, I have no idea where the colors, the forms, the images came from. I don't like to copy, even from nature.”

Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?

“It's very improvisational.”

Are there any art world trends you are following?

“Nope! I just follow my soul. Or if someone commissions a piece, I tell them to tell me about them. Their personalities, their likes and dislikes, specific colors they might want to see. I go from there and have not had any one say that they did not like it. They loved it.”

What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?

“Polymer clay, acrylics, Swarovski crystals, metal spikes, gesso, gel mediums, found objects, gold leaves, other metal embellishments.”

What does your art mean to you?

“My art is my world. Without it, I'm in fetal position all day. I feel lost and feel as though I am not serving my purpose in my life. I have met and made so many true friends and connections through my art. I am very grateful for that. I have an ability that is truly my own. As every human is different, so am I, hence my art is how it is.”

What’s your favourite artwork and why?

“Starry night by Van Gogh. All of the versions. It's very hard to choose one. It makes me go places in my mind and brings out new ideas. Looking at the variations of them truly makes me happy.”