Inspiration Boost : Sophie Wilkins
It is with immense joy that we welcome Sophie Wilkins among our artists! Sophie is a talented painter and muralist who draws her inspiration from the beauty of nature and the animal world. Her fascinating works have the power to touch the hearts of both children and adults.
We had the privilege of collaborating with Sophie on our new puzzle collection, and we are delighted to introduce you to her creation titled "Dream." Dive into Sophie's dreamlike world and discover her inspiring artistic journey through this Boost of inspiration!
Hello Sophie, can you introduce yourself in a few words? Who are you, what do you do, and what is your background?
I am a painter and artist. I grew up in the countryside in Ste-Barbe and have been living in Montreal since my studies in Fine Arts at Cégep du Vieux Montréal. After that, I pursued training in artistic makeup at Collège Interdec. While exploring various aspects of this field, it was after the birth of my son that I wanted to return to painting and dedicate myself to my art.
Initially, I worked in commercial projects, creating murals for restaurants, bars, cities, and children's rooms, all while continuing to create paintings in my studio. Over the years, the creation of my paintings took a more prominent role, and I am now represented in various galleries in Europe and the United States. On occasion, I still work on murals and paintings for film sets.
When did you start drawing, and what led you to focus on painting and realistic representation?
I was the kind of child who would isolate myself to draw. My parents enrolled me in drawing classes when I was 7 years old, and I feel like I haven't stopped since then. It was during Cegep (College) that I really discovered various art mediums, and it was with acrylic and oil that I felt most comfortable. As for what led me to realistic painting, I enjoy getting lost in the details and painting the expressions in people's eyes.
We absolutely love your visual universe! Could you tell us more about your main sources of inspiration and the subjects you particularly enjoy illustrating?
My main sources of inspiration are nature and animals, often focusing on those that are endangered. I love illustrating Mother Nature as a bearer of messages about the beauty that surrounds us. Additionally, I have painted a series of artworks based on Alice in Wonderland. With the presence of the White Rabbit, I enjoy painting about the importance of living our dreams.
Can you tell us a bit more about your creative process? How do you go about creating your artworks?
It starts with a cup of coffee, a drawing tablet, a pencil, and research on the subjects that inspire me.
Name three artists who have had a real impact on your work and why?
During my adolescence, Dali and Magritte had a significant influence on me with their imaginative and compositional skills. Then, I fell in love with the play of textures and colors of the Quebecois artist Dominic Besner. Finally, I must mention Frida Kahlo for her unique and captivating universe.
What is the best advice you have received as an artist, or the most important thing you have learned that you wish you knew at the very beginning of your career?
Do what you love, and the universe will take care of the rest
Do you have any future projects that you would like to share with us?
At the moment, I am dedicating myself to the production of new paintings, and perhaps you will see some new murals in the streets of Montreal this summer.
New Release !
For the new range of puzzles from Lalita's Art Shop, illustrated by Canadian artists and illustrators, Sophie brings us a collection that truly represents her!
Shop the 1000-piece puzzle by clicking here
To stay updated and not miss anything about Sophie Wilkins' work:
Website : http://www.sophiewilkins.com/
Instagram : @sophiewilkinsarts
Facebook : @SophieWilkinsArts
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