We had the good fortune of connecting with Olivia Watson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Olivia, how do you think about risk?
Risk just seems scary. And the outcome of taking a risk is always unknown. Because of this, my art business has been nothing but a risk I took. In high school, I was told by my parents that this could not be a career. A hobbie, but not a career. So I stopped doing art and just picked it up about a year ago.
Over the last year, I have just tried to get people to acknowledge my art as art. Art is so personal and my biggest fear is no one will like it. But I realized my art isn’t meant for anyone but me and I’m choosing to share it!
Because I took the risk of sharing my art, I have grown so much. It helped me recognize that my individuality is what makes my art…art. So take all the risks you want and if it doesn’t work… learn from it and try something else!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My style of art could be described as abstract and some surrealism. I love black and white with a little bit of color. Most people look at my art and think it’s so difficult because of the design and patterns but for me it is peace.
Even though this is my first year displaying art and participating in shows, I already wanted to quit. I felt like my art was too abstract for others to enjoy. But at a recent show , I sold two big pieces!! I have art collectors now. I ended up not quitting because I genuinely need my art. I feel so refreshed when I have finished a piece. Especially one that I was doubting. I’ve honestly learned that I need to keep going and that my art is not for everyone. I am my art. My art is a form of resistance. I want the world to know that my art represents freedom. Be whoever you want to be. Be them now and always.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I honestly do not like Columbus. But it is a pretty city with lots to do. If it’s the summer season, we’re definitely hitting up a festival (rib fest, comm fest, taco fest, jazz fest). I love the festival culture here. There are also bomb open mic nights!! And adult skate night!!
I believe the Jamaican restaurants are the best here!
There’s also a beignet shop!
My favorite person/mentor in the city is Malik Willoughby. He is one of three yogis that I absolutely love and listen to and his practices are always fruitful. He does a really nice yoga session during the summer called Sunset Yoga with a live band and nice-cream! He truly inspires the city and is like the dad of Columbus!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My first shoutout goes to MoreLifeAllLove LLC for allowing me to participate in my first social Artcase in early 2023. They really helped me discover who I wanted to be in the art community and allowed me to network and make connections !
My second shoutout is to an asshole who played me but really supported my art. Because of him I became more comfortable with my style.
My final shoutout goes to my high school art teacher, Ms Spinka. She introduced me to my style that I still do today and made us realize that art could never be perfect. I replay that everytime I’m working on a project. My art is my expression.

Instagram: @liv11art , personal:@___oliviac___

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/tQRpZpCtgAdL7Qw7/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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