We had the good fortune of connecting with Tomisin Oluwole and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tomisin, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’m pursuing an artistic career because art and creativity is fundamental to who I am as a person. The urge and need to create is a feeling I have resonated with for as long as I can remember. And I’ve come to the point in my artistry as well as in my life where I feel like it’s my responsibility to share this gift in whatever capacity I can, to share my art. So, it’s sort of been a natural progression for me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a poet, a painter, a model, a fashion stylist and occasional photographer. Essentially, I’m an artist. I like to think of myself as a modern day renaissance woman because art for me isn’t about one particular medium. It’s pure curiosity and appreciation for all kinds of artistic expression, however that presents itself. It’s very much an innate thing for me: the desire to create as well as my constant fascination by art and creativity; and I think that in turn is reflected in my own art. I’m constantly exploring myself and the world around me, and that feeds my creativity. It’s really quite refreshing because in as much as I’m building and pursuing this artistic career, I’m creating for myself first. I am my own audience too, and I think it’s important not to lose sight of that as an artist. However, I’m also proud of myself for sharing my art with the world because I wasn’t always confident enough to do that; I didn’t even think I ought to do that but art is a gift. And once I made that realization, there was no going back. I had to share my gift. Even in the moments when I doubt myself, I still think it’s a worthwhile endeavor and for that, I’m truly proud of myself. So right now, I’m just excited to create. That’s what matters most to me,that I keep enjoying making art and eventually the rest will follow as they say. You can quote me on that, haha!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Hm, I think my list would probably look something like this:
1. A picnic by Colorado Lagoon, the park side not the beach
2. Go visit East Village District. They have the best shops, and some of my closest friends own small businesses there as well so that’s always fun.
3.Pick up some sushi from 39 Degrees. I love sushi and theirs is so good!
4.Roller skate through the boardwalk or just walk it
5.Movie and wine at mine, always a vibe. Oh and let’s not forget the trip to Ralphs first for some snacks.
6.Go thrifting at Quality thrift store on East Artesia Blvd and possibly some cute little charity shops
7. Finally, hang out at a park. Maybe El Dorado, maybe Bluff. Or maybe both haha

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Aw man, I feel like this would be quite a list because I have such a wonderful support system. That said, I’d like to shout out my family, my friends and my man. I love you all. I’d also like to thank Rejeana Black for recommending me, you’re amazing. And finally, I’d like to shout out a book called, “Real Artists Don’t Starve” by Jeff Goins because it made me really appreciative of what it means to be an artist and guided me in understanding myself as an artist as well. Plus, it’s a great read, very insightful.

Website: www.tomiluw.com

Instagram: @tomiluw

Image Credits
pic 1 – Nhi Bui

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