**[Abi Salami](https://www.cohart.com/abisalami/profile)** is a self-taught artist who creates surrealist works that explore her experiences as a Nigerian immigrant and Black woman in the United States. Through the use of a personal visual lexicon made up of symbols, she explores topics such as sexuality, mental health and race.

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##### What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you start your journey?

I’ve always felt like an artist at heart. In high school, I dreamed of going to art school, but due to parental expectations, I chose business school instead. In hindsight, that decision gave me skills that now benefit my art career. After graduating, I joined a Big 4 firm, but from day one, I knew it wasn’t my path. I spent a decade in finance and accounting, climbing the corporate ladder, but in 2017, my company merged, and I was laid off. That moment became a turning point.

In 2018, I finally gave myself permission to pursue art full-time, and it’s been an incredible, challenging, and deeply fulfilling journey ever since. My corporate experience taught me the importance of strategy, planning, and discipline—skills that have become invaluable in running my art practice. They say becoming an artist takes "blood, sweat, and tears," and now I understand that on a profound level.

##### What is your favorite medium to work with, and why does it resonate with you?

Acrylic paint is my go-to. It’s incredibly dynamic and forgiving, which suits my intuitive process. I love that I can experiment freely, make changes, and layer without feeling constrained. Acrylic gives me the flexibility to explore, rethink, and refine my ideas until they feel right.

##### Do you have a specific method for gathering inspiration?

Living life fully is my biggest source of inspiration. Traveling to new places, connecting with nature, watching thought-provoking documentaries, and immersing myself in music all fuel my creativity. My most inspired moments often come after I’ve allowed myself to rest—something I’ve learned to prioritize as an artist. Rest is an essential part of the creative process, even if it feels counterintuitive at times.

##### How has your artistic vision evolved over time, and where do you see it heading in the future?

Over time, I’ve grown bolder and more confident in my work. Early in my career, I struggled with self-doubt, and imposter syndrome still creeps in occasionally. But when I reflect on everything I’ve accomplished as a self-taught artist, I remind myself that the possibilities are endless.

Looking ahead, I see myself exploring more immersive and experiential art forms. As tastes shift from ownership to experiences, I want to push my work beyond the canvas into mediums like ceramics and welding, which I’ve dabbled in before. The future feels like a playground for experimentation and innovation, and I’m excited to expand my creative boundaries.

##### How do you stay motivated and inspired during creative blocks or challenging times?

Having a solid support system makes all the difference. I’ve also noticed that during my lowest points, the universe seems to send a random stranger my way with a message of hope or encouragement. It’s uncanny, and it reminds me that I’m on the right path, supported by both my ancestors and the universe. That reassurance keeps me moving forward. I truly believe the universe is conspiring for my success, and I can’t let it—or myself—down.

##### How do you balance the commercial aspects of being an artist with your creative vision?

For me, the rule is simple: if it doesn’t feel authentic, I won’t do it. Early in my career, I made compromises that didn’t align with my values, but those lessons taught me to stay true to myself.

We’re in an era of immense change, where traditional “rules” in art—and many other industries—are being rewritten by technology, social media, and AI. While this disruption can be unsettling, it also creates opportunities for innovation. I believe the future will bring more integration of commercial elements into art in ways that feel authentic.

##### Does technology play a role in your art-making process?

Absolutely. Technology is a crucial part of my research and ideation process. I love using Procreate on my iPad—it’s like a sandbox where I can experiment, take risks, and loosen up before committing ideas to canvas. It helps me explore freely and keeps the creative process playful.

##### Are there any upcoming projects you’re particularly excited about?

Yes! I’m working on a new series that builds on themes from two of my previous collections, exploring the loss of cultural knowledge due to Westernization and efforts to reclaim it. It’s a deeply personal and thought-provoking project.

On a lighter note, I’m also revisiting and reimagining some works from my 2021 series, _My Precarious Kingdom_. This idea came after I saw a collector getting upset that an artist had recreated a piece they had purchased, even though it wasn’t identical. It made me reflect on how the art world often restricts artists from revisiting their own ideas.

For my revisits, I’m not repainting the same works but rather exploring the ideas behind them with the perspective of the 2024 me versus the 2021 me. It’s been fascinating to see how my vision has evolved, and the reimagined pieces feel like a dialogue between my past and present selves. I’ve already completed seven pieces in this series and am offering them as [limited-edition prints](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/14926?fromListingName=Profile&fromListingId=profile), providing collectors an accessible way to engage with this evolving narrative.

##### How do you approach the concept of success or failure in your art practice?

Coming from a finance background—and as a Nigerian—I naturally think in terms of numbers. But over the years, I’ve realized that success in art doesn’t always equate to dollar signs.

Some years, my CV grows, but my bank account doesn’t reflect it, and that can feel frustrating. Ultimately, I measure success by my ability to make art for a living. By that metric, I’m succeeding, and I try to focus on gratitude for that privilege.

##### What advice would you give to emerging artists or peers trying to find their voice in the art world?

**Be consistent**. Create work that’s authentic to you, and don’t chase trends.

**Network**. Build relationships with other artists through social media and attend art-centric or adjacent events like fashion, real estate, or hospitality gatherings. Many of my best opportunities came from artist recommendations.

**Invest in self-development**. Learn skills that will help you run your studio more effectively—whether it’s marketing, AI tools, or sales strategies. YouTube is a goldmine for free knowledge, but also be willing to financially invest in any training you need to achieve your goals. 

**Find a mentor or coach**. When I started, I didn’t have a mentor, and it felt like navigating blindly. Once I found guidance, it changed everything. A good mentor can fast-track your journey and help you achieve your goals.

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Abi Salami is a self-taught surrealist artist exploring themes of race, sexuality, and mental health through a personl visual lexicon.


Spotlight: Abi Salami on Exploring Identity Through Surrealism

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