Meet Zykira Wilson | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zykira Wilson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zykira, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
I have both a favorite affirmation and bible verse. The first quote is by Issa Rae where she references to black women and the magic we possess, ” We give love and we give life no matter who tries us.” I like this quote because it speaks volumes about who we are as black woman facing many challenges yet still showing up every day to get through and face the world. To have a nurturing spirit and a genuine, loving heart during trying times is something that I take pride in, it costs nothing to keep going and to keep pushing through no matter what I am facing, it shows resilience and adaptability.
A bible verse that I like and that also keeps me going is Jeremiah 29:11, ” For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ This keeps going because it reminds me to trust in the plan that was already written for me even though I may not see it in that moment, It may be times where I am down on my luck and feel like giving up and choosing a different walk of life but when I am reminded this verse I regain the strength and determination to keep going in spite of, you never know , your life could turn around for the better in the next minute, hour or day.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I create paintings working with different mediums bringing life to the canvas. My art is a depiction of my emotions, experiences, inspirations and a reflection of the culture. I am inspired by many things, mainly by music, fashion and even other creatives with beautiful souls. I always enjoyed witnessing and engaging in other people’s creative journey and how they choose to express themselves as much I do my own, whether they were creating music, sewing clothes, taking pictures or even doing hair it’s all a part of the culture. I also create works of art for anyone who has lost a loved one or even lost themselves at a point in time. I genuinely enjoy capturing the essence of those loved ones who have passed, highlighting what their souls reflected outside of the flesh. I love to capture their faces in black and white while having plenty of space to add color and liven up the canvas. When I create in that style of work I feel as if I am really fulfilling my purpose and doing what I was born to do. What sets me apart as an artist is that I use my mind, body and soul to create, I like to make others smile with my heart, a small kind gesture could make a difference in someone’s life. I am very proud of that alone, knowing that I was once very shy and afraid to speak up and share my work scared that it would not be as sacred to me, but it turned out that it’s more sacred than ever before. This journey has saved my life and as an artist, a woman, a young black woman that has both suffered and succeeded, I feel as if it is very important that I continue to create for myself and others along the way and show them the true beauty of who I am. My slogan is “Art for the Soul” because in those moments where I am painting my soul is speaking, and also it alludes to the beautiful souls that have lost their way or have been set free.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had friends or relatives visiting, I would take them out for breakfast or to a nice brunch spot, If the weather is nice I would like to go for a walk or take a nice hike through a nature trail at the park. For a night vibe, I would go to a karaoke bar, attend a fashion show event, or even attend a few art shows at Underground Atlanta. They have a lot of events going on every week so that would be a nice experience to enjoy. I am big on nature, so any activity that involves being outside and exploring new things and also learning about different cultures really pique my interest. I am always down for a good experience that involves having fun and just simply enjoying yourself with good music and food.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First I would like to give a shoutout to all of my family and friend who continuously show me love and support on this journey that many others may not believe in , from purchasing my art to just showing up at events. It means a lot to have the people I love and hold close to my heart rooting for me even through my mistakes, I believe that’s when support matters the most, while you’re in the phases of building. I also would like to give a special thanks to my aunt who shows up and gives her support in so many ways no matter what, I love that about her, Also shoutout to the many other artists and creatives that I am inspired by, the culture is what inspires me the most and forever grateful. Lastly, I would like to give a special thanks to my old mentor with the program Upward Bound CTC, Mr. Kenny Stallings, he recently passed this year, He became more of a second father to me when times were hard. He always preached to me about being confident in who I am and always letting me know that I was beautiful and that I did not look like what I’ve been through. He’s the reason I smile and why I like to share my smile with others because that’s what he did with me no matter what he was facing in life. He taught me how to show up and stand tall in any room, make my presence known and let go of the fear of being judged by others. He was the epitome of leadership and pure kindness, he so freely shared his joy/light , his time with others and for that I say THANK YOU.

Instagram: @KiiraBiraa / @Kiras.Kolours