We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bella Mfon a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Bella, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
One of the most meaningful projects I have worked on was partnering with the Reconnect Health Development Initiative in honour of World Mental Health Day 2022. Our goal was to raise funds to provide subsidized treatment for individuals facing mental health challenges.
I delved into the art world through painting as a hobby and a form of therapy, which allowed me to process my innermost thoughts and work through conflicting emotions that I found difficult to express. Participating in this project was healing, and I am grateful for the opportunity to use my experience and artwork to help others who struggle with similar mental health challenges.
I feel honoured to be among the talented artists who participated in this initiative.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Bella Mfon, a self-taught visual artist from Abuja, Nigeria, with five years of experience working with acrylics and textures. I began my artistic journey to express emotions I couldn’t verbalize, and over time, it evolved into a mission to create relatable pieces that connect with others on a deeper level.
My work is primarily abstract, focusing on mental well-being and healing. I use vibrant colours and textures to reveal hidden emotions, helping viewers confront their inner struggles and realize they are not alone. What sets me apart is my commitment to mental health advocacy, with each piece serving as a tool for emotional reflection and healing.
One of my proudest achievements is witnessing how my work resonates with people, providing them comfort and validation.
My long-term goal is to establish a foundation where children can use art as therapy, helping them navigate their emotions through creative expression.
For anyone curious about my work, it centres on emotional connection and self-discovery. I hope my creations inspire viewers to embrace their inner light and find beauty in their experiences.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with people on a deep emotional level. When someone looks at my work and feels understood or seen – especially about their mental well-being or personal struggles, I feel incredibly fulfilled.
Art allows me to communicate emotions that words often fail to capture, and the greatest reward is knowing that my creations can offer comfort, reflection, or healing to others. It reminds me that my work has a purpose beyond aesthetics—it touches lives and encourages people to embrace their inner journeys.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
To effectively support artists and nurture a vibrant creative ecosystem, society should focus on several key areas:
First, increasing access to funding and grants for artists will enable more creatives to pursue their passions without financial burden. This support should be extended to established and emerging artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
Second, providing platforms for artists to showcase their work—such as public exhibitions, digital spaces, and community events—enhances visibility and fosters connections between artists and the public. Opportunities for collaboration, mentorship programs, and artist residencies are also essential for growth and learning.
Finally, promoting the integration of art into everyday life and institutions, including schools and mental health programs, underscores the significance of art beyond mere entertainment. It highlights its impact on emotional well-being, education, and social change. By recognizing creativity’s therapeutic and societal benefits, we can cultivate a culture that truly values and supports its artists.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @bella.mfon
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/bellamfon-essien
- Twitter: bellamfon
- Youtube: bellamfon
