Today we’d like to introduce you to Odemi Pessu.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Growing up, I was always a creative person. I knew that storytelling was my calling, be it through writing, singing, or visual art. As I grew older, I also developed a strong interest in international relations and economics. Unfortunately, it seemed like I would have to choose between my academic pursuits and creative passions. So I was elated when I received a full-ride scholarship to Brown University- I knew I would have the opportunity to explore both realms with full force.
While at Brown, I realized that I could merge my interests and use my writing and artistic skills to tell the kind of stories I was passionate about. I studied International Relations and Political Economy during undergrad, and am now pursuing a Master of Public Affairs at Brown as well. I love learning about different cultures and traveling, so I naturally began taking pictures of my surroundings when I started traveling more often. I love photography in particular because one photo can simultaneously capture the nuance of life while giving a glimpse at the full narrative.
Now, I specialize in travel, architectural, and landscape photography. The broader breadth of my work explores the spatial relationships between material culture and nature. I think the best way to describe myself would be visual anthropologist and cultural economist. I no longer feel like I have to choose between my passions. I can be a creative and a scholar at the same time! Ultimately, I aim to capture the stories that lay in the angles, sculptural patterns, and forms of everyday life so I can cultivate a global appreciation of life’s artistry through an abstract lens.
Has it been a smooth road?
I think the hardest part of mapping out a path for myself has been the aspect of loneliness. When you are a creator and an academic, you often find yourself in a very niche world. So this means I have to seek out non-traditional ways of defining success for myself.
Another struggle has been remembering not to force myself into one box. I just had to tell myself that I am a multi-faceted and multi-talented person and that is ok. Social media and society at large can make it seem like people have to choose only one thing and do that but I’ve realized that I can only truly come into purpose by embracing all facets of myself and showing all of them love.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a photographer and a writer. I am most proud of the diversity in my subject matter. I don’t often see many African women in academic spaces and I am happy that I can contribute my own perspective and research to those spaces. The same goes for abstract photography. I feel like I’m showing my nieces and young women I mentor that they can pursue their passions and find fulfillment and success.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Culture is ever-evolving and society is always changing so I do anticipate that those shifts will push my work to different dimensions.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.odemipessu.com
- Email: odemi@odemipessu.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/odemipessu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/odemipessuphotography/
Image Credit:
Odemi Pessu
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