Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chidinma Mordi. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Chidinma, appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

I had been working a 9 to 5 as an architect at a firm when I decided to quit and go full time as a self employed artist. I was frankly terrified of the prospects of living and working as an entrepreneur. Although prior to that I was already combining my work as an architect (day job) and my side gig as an artist. However when I decided to go full time as an artist, I received an offer to work remotely as a digital illustrator for Tani Series Limited and I took it. That was January, 2021. Having a soft landing like that helped me ease into my work as an artist and earn full-time off my creative work. I can say having a saving culture and being able to take charge of my expenses helped me scale through the tough months were I made no art sales.

Chidinma, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am Chidinma Yemisi Mordi, an artist from Nigeria. I always had a passion for art right from when I was a little girl, and I had really supportive parents who would let me scribble away on the walls, buy me art supplies and save and document my drawings from my early years. Growing up, I was also fascinated with Architecture and I went on to study that in my undergraduate and postgraduate studies. In 2015 during my internship year in the university, I started painting more frequently and when I had buyers for my first set of paintings in acrylic, I was greatly encouraged to take it seriously. Growing up in Nigeria has always inspired me and most of my paintings are a celebration of where I come from, our culture, communal spirit, and our colourful attires. My use of vibrant colours in my paintings as opposed to dull hues and melancholic postures is intentional in relaying the joy that comes from being a Nigerian and an African. I am very proud when I hear art enthusiasts describe my paintings as therapeutic and joy giving. It makes me glad to know that something I created can offer some form of relief to people who need a glimpse of sunshine into their day or lives.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Yes, I dream of having my paintings owned by people all over the world, in countries I have never been, sitting in homes I may never visit, bringing life to spaces they occupy.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Taking out the pressure of perfection from my process as an artist. The journey to finding one’s niche as an artist is often different for a lot of people. I had just made samples of pieces for a prospective client who did not show much appreciation for my painting style and that left me feeling really discouraged, however few days after that experience someone reached out to purchase a painting of mine, that was such a mood lifter seeing someone else show such deep admiration for my work. In the following weeks I learned to give myself grace while exploring my many ways of expression. I am glad I found my unique style as an artist in 2023, however I am learning that it is always going to be a journey, I have decided not to put any more pressure on myself or compare my work with other artists. No art is superior, art is art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cyramordi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbycyra_/
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/chidinma-yemisi-mordi-7a692aa4