"When I was about 6 years old a cousin of mine purchased oil pastels for a school project. I came across them in her room and I was hooked. That was the beginning of art in my life and it’ll never leave my side.
I talked myself into a job as an art instructor at my local gallery at age 15. I thought I could teach kids art (yikes!). What I lacked in experience I made up for with passion and creativity.
I have taught art to children and adults throughout my career; and when it came time to decide on my Master’s thesis at university, I researched art projects throughout Canada and South America.
In 2014, when I was home on maternity leave and - let’s be honest, bored - I started a mobile studio business called The Art Cart. I wanted to bring more arts opportunities to my community and I started it in my living room. I went on to have that studio in many capacities, for 5 years.
Artistic endeavours have always been a part of who I am and what I do, and Vivian-Sofia Designs + Studio is the most personal extension of me.
Put simply, it’s about making art that brings me joy and can brighten others’ lives. I love bright colours, cheerful patterns, and playful designs. And in an age of minimalism, I’m a bit hesitant to say - yes, I’m a maximalist. There. I said it. So you’ll find lots going on in our art as well.
My natural habitat is the bookstore while sipping on coffee, dreaming of art to make.
I hope my pieces bring you as much joy as I have making them!
XO Vivian-Sofia"
