Today we’d like to introduce you to Rozina Essani.
Hi Rozina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a math educator by profession and a self-taught artist working mainly in oils and watercolor. Art has always been a part of my life ever since I could hold a pencil. It started with sketch art, which then evolved into trying different mediums including acrylic, oil and watercolor.
My biggest accomplishment in the area of art is making it an International Jubilee Arts Festival in Lisbon, Portugal where 8 entries out of thousands were selected to represent the United States.
An amalgamation of the Jubilee arts journey and leading online art sessions during the pandemic have allowed me to re-evaluate my passion for art and instilled in me the courage to go beyond and share my work. I am extremely grateful to now have a permanent installations in multiple galleries around the country.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There were definitely struggles along the way. One major challenge has been the cultural perception of art in the Southeast Asian community. A career in art usually does not get the same respect as other traditional careers. You are always in a battle against cultural norms that perceive art as a hobby rather than an acceptable career choice. Growing up in that environment, you tend to believe what others say and put your paint brushes aside and shut off all creative aspirations. At the end of the day, the fight is worth fighting and aspirations are worth reaching for.
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?
As a mathematician and an artist, I have always found mathematics synonymous to art in the way proportions, depth, and balance play a role in art making. I am always captivated by the light falling over a scene and its role in helping us connect with nature’s unpredictable state.
My work reflects my personal style – colorful, serene, and impressionistic. Inspired by nature and the deconstruction of landscapes and objects into color, lines, form and space, I strive to depict the beauty and color of our natural world infused with the multidimensional reality of light.
I work primarily in watercolor and oil from my home studio based in Lawrenceville, Georgia.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
The online art community is one of the greatest resources out there for self-taught artists. Developing relationships with artists on online platforms have led to in-person art experiences and opportunities. Artists that are further along in their art career hold a wealth of knowledge which they happily share. Building relationships is huge, as in any endeavor. My advice is to attend events fellow artists are attending and talk to them about their work. Get their attention by commenting on their posts or promote them on social media.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.znzfineart.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/znzfineart
Image Credits
Chromalogue Studios
