Check Out Sikari Henry’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sikari Henry.

Hi Sikari, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Ever since I was a child, drawing was my favorite way to bring stories to life. Anime and manga first sparked my imagination, their vibrant colors and unique style pulling me in. I was captivated by how cool it all looked, so I picked up my pencil and began practicing in that style. By the time I turned sixteen, my passion deepened. I moved beyond stylized sketches and began exploring a wide range of drawing techniques and other creative crafts.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve had some wonderful opportunities to share my art, but my twenties have been far from easy. When I was 21, my mom was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, and I became her full-time caregiver. Around the same time, I learned that my father had passed away from COVID. Despite the weight of these hardships, I continued to create, squeezing in art shows and events between caring for my mom and making sure she was safe. Now, as 2025 unfolds, I am embracing a season of healing. Losing my mom on Christmas Eve last year left an ache I am still learning to live with, especially as I care for my brother. At first, I struggled to create because my mom was always my biggest supporter. She was the first person I wanted to show my finished paintings to. Though grief dimmed my motivation, I am slowly rediscovering my passion for art. The past few years have tested me, but hearing that my art brings healing to others inspires me to keep sharing my gift with the world.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a visual artist, I refuse to be confined to a single category. My creativity spans character illustration, design, portraits, and 3D modeling. While digital art is my main medium, I also explore painting, mixed media, and sculpture. My work is recognized for its vibrant portraits and charming character illustrations, bursting with color and whimsy. Through my art, I celebrate the beauty of blackness, representing a spectrum of skin tones, body types, and hairstyles. I hope that when people see themselves reflected in my creations, they feel inspired and seen.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Out in public, I was the quiet, introverted kid, barely making a ripple in the crowd. At school, I was the good kind of oddball, always on top of my work but drawn to quirky interests that set me apart. At home, though, my personality flipped like a light switch. I was the family comedian, always cracking jokes and keeping everyone entertained. My mom called me “CNN” because I had a knack for picking up on every bit of family gossip and reporting it straight to her. My childhood revolved around four passions: sketching cute characters, conquering video game worlds, binge-watching animated shows, and cooking up delicious food with my mom. She always called me into the kitchen to chop, stir, and, most importantly, be her official taste tester.

Pricing:

• Acrylic KeyChains: $12
• Print Sizes: $8-50
• Handmade Clay Charms: $45
• Portrait Painting Starting Price: $250
• Illustrations: $125

Contact Info:

• Website: https://KariJGraphics.store
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karijgraphics/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KARIJGRAPHICS/
• Other: https://dot.cards/karijgraphics