We were lucky to catch up with Oluwasade Orebiyi recently and have shared our conversation below.
Oluwasade, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
From a tender age, my fascination with creativity was palpable. I vividly recall the moments spent immersed in colors and shapes, crayons in hand, creating miniature worlds on paper. The allure of storytelling through visuals captivated me, and as a little girl, I found solace in capturing the beauty of my surroundings through my tiny lens.
Growing up, my curiosity extended beyond conventional artistic expressions. I was drawn to the enchanting world of photography and technology, mesmerized by the seamless integration of creativity and innovation behind the two. It was clear to me, even then, that my passion lay at the intersection of creativity and technology.
These early inklings have since evolved into a profound commitment to a creative path. From my childhood doodles to my forays into photography and technology, I recognized the undeniable synergy between my love for visual storytelling and technological exploration. This lifelong journey of self-discovery solidified my conviction to pursue a creative path professionally.
In retrospect, my early experiences laid the foundation for the artist, photographer, and techie I am today. Every step has been a testament to my unwavering passion, and I am excited to continue weaving my narrative through the lens of creativity and technology.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey into photography began with the joy of being captured by my father’s lens during our family milestones. The creative industry always beckoned, and with my first camera, I immersed myself in learning, evolving into a dedicated freelance photographer. Photography and design classes fueled my passion to share knowledge with future art enthusiasts.
In addition to that, my recent focus intertwines UX Design, research, and photography, setting me apart by immersing in clients’ visions, aligning with their values. I take pride in being a perpetual student, ensuring I understand and bring to life the essence of my clients, never faltering in my commitment to achieving their best versions.
As for my proudest moments as a photographer and designer in tech stem from my unwavering determination. I take pride in never giving up, consistently going above and beyond, especially when faced with challenges. Staying focused on the end goal has allowed me to create meaningful and impactful work. As I reflect on my journey, this resilience fuels my commitment to continuous learning and growth in every facet of my creative career. I am eager to embrace new challenges, evolve with emerging technologies, and further refine my skills, ensuring I remain at the forefront of the dynamic and ever-evolving creative realm.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, honestly the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative lies in the ability to translate imagination into tangible expressions. Bringing ideas to life and witnessing the impact on others, evoking emotions or sparking inspiration, creates a deep sense of fulfillment. The power to convey stories, provoke thought, and connect with people on a profound level is an enriching experience that makes the artistic journey truly gratifying.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
In order for society to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem; especially for Black and Brown people (women specifically) would sound something like this:
Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Encourage diverse representation in artistic spaces, supporting initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices and perspectives.
Provide Equal Opportunities: Create platforms and opportunities that ensure equitable access for artists of all backgrounds, facilitating fair representation and recognition.
Invest in Education: Support inclusive arts education programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives that empower aspiring artists from diverse backgrounds to develop their skills.
Financial Support: Establish funding mechanisms, grants, and scholarships specifically aimed at supporting artists from marginalized communities, reducing financial barriers to entry.
Cultural Awareness: Foster an environment that appreciates and celebrates cultural diversity, acknowledging the unique contributions of artists from various backgrounds.
Advocate for Fair Compensation: Ensure fair compensation for artists’ work, addressing disparities and promoting a sustainable livelihood for creatives.
Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: Facilitate networking events and collaborative projects that encourage cross-cultural interactions, fostering a supportive community within the creative industry.
Representation in Leadership: Encourage diversity in leadership roles within creative organizations and institutions, ensuring decision-makers reflect the diverse makeup of the artistic community.
Address Systemic Barriers: Identify and dismantle systemic barriers that hinder the progress of artists from underrepresented groups, promoting an inclusive and accessible creative ecosystem.
Amplify Voices: Actively promote and amplify the work of artists from diverse backgrounds through exhibitions, publications, and media coverage, ensuring their contributions are recognized and valued.
Contact Info:
- Twitter: __byade
- Other: email: [email protected] ** website is currently being revamped and will be available soon!