SJISOKAY

My practice stems from a simple curiosity about individuality within the longstanding history of human creation.

As a young child, without lifting the pen I drew a scribble, yet I couldn’t fathom how it could possibly be unique when so many artists, known or otherwise, had come before me. This curiosity led me to draw an unbroken, intricately tangled line without lifting the pen until I felt certain it had become something entirely my own.

Planting a seed of quiet determination to create beyond the boundaries of art.

Encouraged in school to transition from drawing into painting, I began exploring colour as a new way of approaching portraiture which led me to the style I continue to pursue today. I often approach painting almost like a sculptor, disregarding traditional under-drawings and instead building portraits layer by layer, using paint to carve out bold forms.

Through painting I aim to challenge rigid expectations of art while encouraging curiosity, experimentation and creative freedom. For me, painting is not about chasing perfection but practicing self-compassion, curiosity and persistence. I believe there is no perfect work of art, only the willingness to move through the ‘messy middle’ and allow the piece to unfold – a mantra that I believe should extend beyond art and into the broader landscapes of our inner worlds.

Brisbane Street Art Festival (BSAF) – Brisbane

(Gallery exhibition and live painting)

Westoria – Brisbane

(Gallery exhibition and live painting)

Rabbits Eat Lettuce Festival – Queensland

(Festival murals and live painting)

Tomcat Bar – Fortitude Valley, Brisbane

(Interior mural commission)

Suburban West End – Brisbane

(Café gallery exhibition)

You Came Again – West End, Brisbane

(Café gallery exhibition)

SIGNAL – Melbourne

(Gallery exhibition)