Daily Inspiration: Meet Dom Sankofa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dom Sankofa.

dom, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It truly started when I transferred elementary schools in the early 2000s. I had an art teacher who was really passionate about her job (S/O Ms. Beverly Barksdale) . She made art fun. So much so that I would integrate art into anything I did growing up. I would draw in my downtime, and it got to a point where people wanted me to draw them. I learned very quickly how important it is to sign your artwork. Overall, art never left me.

As I got older, I tapped into other hobbies. Elementary school was the last time I had proper instruction in art, but it was still something that didn’t feel forced or too hard to grasp. If anything, I made things for myself and I felt okay with only seeing it as such.

When I transferred to Valdosta State, I went in as an Art major but was immediately discouraged. Because I didn’t take it in grade school, I was lacking in some basic knowledge. I took interests in things that I loved but wasn’t passionate about until it became unbearable. That’s when I started art seriously.

In grad school, I began pouring into my brand, nostalgia90seven. Rather than chasing a certain look, I dug deep and made things that I like. My focus is on Afrocentricity and the important of nostalgia and your inner child. It has helped me heal parts of myself that I didn’t realize needed healing.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. As any other person who is one in the world, life throws so many curveballs mentally and physically. At times, I’ve felt discouraged to continue whether it’s because I didn’t think it was good enough, I personally don’t feel good or I didn’t feel appreciated/worthy in spaces. I always tell myself that the Universe has given me clear visions of the work I produce so I can’t give up on myself.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I like to call myself a multidisciplinary artist. I dabble in multiple mediums, but painting and rug tufting are my go-to(s) and what I’m most known for. I’m most proud of how true to myself I am and how it reflects in my art. I have a childlike spirit, so if I can translate that into my art, I’m golden.

What sets me apart from others is that I take on a sociological approach to every painting I do. As a sociologist and visual artist, I think it’s extremely important to not only make art that is true to you, but art that is meaningful and that adds values to the communities you’re apart of.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
After every piece I finish, I love to talk in depth about the meaning and process behind it through my 90Seven Artist Talks. I think it’s important to expose yourself a bit more. When people see your passion, they gravitate to your art more; creates your tribe and community.

My art speaks for me in ways I can’t explain sometimes. I hope when you see it, it gives you a sense of nostalgia and relief. I hope the vibrant colors make me feel whole. I hope it gives you a sense of comfort.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nostalgia90seven.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nostalgia90seven
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1J4KsZxxjL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/nostalgia90seven