Sandy Ojuri is an artist who explores music, powerful women and representation that manifests itself into good energies portraying happiness throughout her work. After studying Graphic Design and working in post-production, Sandy felt she needed more in order to fulfil her artistic cravings. Since then, she has worked as a freelance artist which has given her the freedom to develop her style and flourish as a creative. Previously influenced mostly by renaissance, Sandy now works more with bright colours which reflects the mood she is aiming to achieve with her work. Many of her paintings are of musicians so her colourful style complements this. Read on to hear more from Sandy herself as she talks to Coeval about her creative practice.

What originally influenced you to begin creating art?

I’ve always loved creating. My mind is usually running at 500mph so the best place for me would be in being able to create and get it all out!

Tell us about your creative journey, how did you get to where you are today?

I studied Graphic Design in London and after that I actually went into post-production working on various magazines. However, I could never ignore my creative itch so started to get back into art as a freelancer again.

How has your artistic style developed over time?

My artistic style has developed over time, more with what I’ve been interested in at the time. I used to be heavily influenced by imagery that already existed. Now I just use it as a point of reference to kick some ideas off. I’ve definitely developed more of an open imagination! I used to work quite deeply with renaissance tones and quietly migrated into a more colourful feel. Although I do go back to the renaissance masters every now and again!

What does your work mean to you from a personal perspective?

From a personal perspective I’d say my work relates to my moods, experiences and generally wanting to make people think, be happy, smile or just generally feel some kind of floating emotion.

What would say are your biggest influences when it comes to concepting ideas for new pieces?

My biggest influence I’d say is music. I can’t live without it, so it often dribbles into my work in some way. Powerful women and powerful energy in general comes a close second if not in the same breath. Representation in art also matters massively.

Tell us about one of your favourite pieces you have made?

Picking my favourite piece is hard! I’m one of THOSE creatives. I really love my Badu piece because it was the first more ‘stylised’ artwork I’ve done since realism and it’s been really well received. Although, on the other hand, I still love my Giggs digital painting and my Red man acrylic painting. See? I can’t pick!

What is next for ‘Just Sandy’?

With everything that has been going on recently I have no idea what’s next really. Just taking it one piece at a time and hoping to continue to evolve my brand and be able to share my visions with the world and connect with likeminded individuals. I’m hoping to go into animation, possibly produce some collectibles and just enjoy the process!