Ayoo Africa 2020 Top Ten Trailblazer // Art
“I am my own muse. My thoughts and truths inspire me and express the universal struggle of identity and mental soundness – a merging of inner worlds with the textures of reality.” – Somi Nwandu
She is an award-winning photographer and exhibiting visual artist. Globally recognized in various institutions throughout the U.S.A, Europe, and Nigeria, her work emphasizes the significance in building more cross-cultural creative ties between Africa and the world.
Born in Enugu, eastern Nigeria and raised in Maryland, U.S.A Somi has always been fascinated with the art scene. Her creations started early and then evolved through various stages of writing, digital/fashion illustrations, painting, and photography. She later moved to New York at 17 to study Fashion Business, International Trade, and Marketing at the Fashion Institute.
Through brand development, creative project management, marketing, and art direction, she has worked with creative industries like Alexander Wang, Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, Tom Ford International, Macy’s, SMO Contemporary Art, Ruff ’n’ Tumble and more.
Somi believes that art holds power and truth. She has lived in various Cities, and has been to over thirty Countries.Through her art, she hopes to unify and inspire her audience, and share more of Africa.
