Conversations with Aisha Imani Sanaa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aisha Imani Sanaa.

Hi Aisha Imani. Can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I was born into a family of musicians, singers, and artists, so my artistic abilities came naturally at a young age. My great aunt, who was more like a grandmother and an artist herself, would give me pencils, crayons, and paper and encourage me to draw. I spent my early and formative years in the vibrant, scenic, culturally diverse Oakland, CA. This cultivated my passion for visually stimulating objects, patterns, and images. The revolutionary spirit of the town and my mother normalized celebrating black pride, history, and culture, which also impacted my creative sensibilities. I attended the California College of the Arts, earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, and began to embrace my love for painting with acrylics. Attending an art school that focused on critical thinking and social awareness solidified my desire to create art and design that celebrates Blackness and benefits people that are often disregarded. After graduating, I moved to Kansas and began focusing on my life as a wife and mother while maintaining my skills by painting custom artwork and doing freelance design projects. During recent years, I’ve developed an artist identity and business to promote my vision and highlight the beauty of black culture, resiliency, and the pursuit of new beginnings.

Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a challenging road. However, it’s taught me many lessons and fostered a passion for cultivating wellness for myself and others. It has been challenging to balance being a stay-at-home mother and finding time for self-care and career development. I have realized that mental wellness is key to creating an abundant, balanced, and joyous life.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a mixed-media visual artist and designer. I specialize in creating artwork that celebrates the pursuit of mental and spiritual wellness, new beginnings, joy, and liberation. I also design living, work, and public spaces that help facilitate wellness. I am most proud of my artwork’s ability to uplift people’s spirits. What sets me apart is my art style and use of symbolism. In my work, I use silhouetted black figures, lotus flowers, varied plant life, and adinkra symbols to highlight wellness and other significant life principles, such as resiliency, bravery, resourcefulness, and freedom. Another unique element of my artwork is using paper collaging to revere historical moments. Referencing important figures and times from the past highlights my community’s challenges and how we can use their accomplishments as inspiration.

Are any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
The greatest resource in my professional career as an artist has been ArtsConnect of Topeka, KS. ArtsConnect is an arts engagement organization that helps local artists build their skills, employment and allows the community to engage with art. I have participated in art exhibitions, professional career-building programs, workshops, and events through the organization. I am so grateful to have access to such a helpful resource.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.aishaimanisanaa.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aishaimanisanaa/