Check Out Oceana Andries’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Oceana Andries

Hi Oceana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I was a child, I was amazed by animation. I was absolutely enamored with old-school Disney and studio Ghilibi. As I got older, I first wanted to pursue 2d animation. I moved to NY to begin studying at a traditional art atelier to understand human anatomy better and strengthen my portfolio. Once in NYC, I began to learn about its art scene, and my love for art extended to the contemporary art scene. I also gained insight into various art trends and their main players, which was good to know. In the school, many talented artists didn’t have a platform to showcase their work to wider audiences. They’ve sharpened their technical skills and were fantastic artists with creative minds, but they remained unknown.
I saw a need in a community I love and began working to create places where talented individuals could showcase their work. I recently graduated from Columbia University, where I majored in Visual Art and Art History. There, I accessed another network of artists and learned histories that allowed me to connect movements and understand the politics around art. Today, I help curate around the city and write articles to spotlight artists.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The balance of creating a new life while trying to survive in the one you currently exist in is always challenging. Pursuing a career in art isn’t an easy one. The artists I highlight are the ones I admire because, despite the challenges, they keep a flexible, creative, and hopeful mind to continue to create and balance their numerous responsibilities in society and a creative drive. I, like the artists I showcase, also struggle with visibility, creating community, and resources. Despite what initially appears to be a limitation, it allows us to think innovatively and make genuine connections to build communities.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Near the end of my education, I began curating and art writing. I publish occasionally with Whitehot magazine and write frequently for my newsletter through Substack: https://oceanastudio.substack.com/
I typically highlight art, art events, and artists in and around NYC. Be sure to subscribe to keep up-to-date with art news.

I’m working on a lot of projects for the upcoming year. I will be having a few exhibitions that focus on unsung talent and will continue art writing. Please tap in on any of my socials!

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the vibrancy of metropolitan cities and their ability to merge the traditional and contemporary. Being in such lively places constantly inspires me to create. I love the people and artists I’m surrounded by and enjoy writing and curating. There’s always something to explore and a goal to pursue.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://oceana.studio
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocea.an/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oceana-andries
• Other: https://oceanastudio.substack.com/