Today we’d like to introduce you to Vino Isakin.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been drawn to art, starting with scribbles and consistently drawing and painting ever since! I’m a deep believer in the importance of beauty, as Dostoevsky said, “beauty will save the world.” Beauty is the most influential, powerful force. Even the most logical, atheistic scientist can be charmed, fall in love… I aim for beauty in my paintings, the act is also a therapeutic ritual. It’s very clear to see my evolution towards inner peace through my portfolio.
I started selling art in 2020 with my mom (Rai), also an artist. I recently branched out to start my own brand, and am very excited to share my work more directly and personally.
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?
My journey has not been a smooth road of course. I’ve spent countless hours teaching myself new skills, figuring out design software, solving problems through trial and error, and turning ideas that existed only in my head into real products. As an introverted personality, talking to people and finding the balance between improving my craft and “getting myself out there” has been probably the most significant obstacle. I am very grateful to have my mother’s support through many of these trials.
I became a mother myself last year, and keeping the momentum of my art was and is something to navigate! Every challenge has become part of the creative process. It’s all wonderful and a part of the messy brilliance of life.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
what sets you apart from others?
Everything and nothing, I suppose. Creating art is so clearly variated, as everyone’s personal touch lives through their work.
I create pieces that feel personal and intentional; that encourage reflection, connection, and a slower, more intentional way of living. Each brushstroke holds and incredible foundation of significance, all my years of practice, values, and emotions.
My process is unique in the ways I often use little scraps and pieces of ephemera, antiques, even cute trash found on the ground. I sealed dead butterflies I saved from when I was 13 into a recent painting. A collection I’m currently working on incorporates Japanese newspapers from the 1950s. I save all my boarding passes and candy wrappers for the background of future paintings, they all hold memories and records; and in a kind of silly way I feel like I’m being environmentally friendly by putting them on a canvas rather than a landfill. I’m extremely sentimental and believe there is a certain divinity in the honesty of personal symbolism intertwined with cultural symbols.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my journey would be to start the next thing before I feel ready. Watching my baby grow up has really clarified this, once one milestone is fulfilled, it’s on to the next without breaking! I don’t feel ready to do this interview if I’m being honest! I believe God is taking care of each of us through every desperate situation, and I must keep going with my dreams. There is hope and it’s ok to be happy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vinoisakin.art/
- Instagram: viinoart
