Today we’d like to introduce you to Yoyo Lander.
YoYo Lander is an autodidactic painter living and working in Los Angeles, CA. Originally from South Carolina. Yoyo’s visions emanate from all that surrounds her while abroad. YoYo’s work explores unconventional color palettes, bold color contrasts, and womanhood.
Her subjects are comprised of an arrangement of brown color harmonies, placed on backgrounds of both subtle and loud color blocks. Yoyo creates her interpretations using personal photographs and stories from indigenous women as her inspiration. The figurative artwork enjoins a conversation between itself and it’s audience regarding joy, identity, sisterhood and community.
Has it been a smooth road?
I’m in the art industry, which has little to no rules. I used to think of that as difficult, but now I see it as an advantage. There are no struggles, just detours.
No struggles, just detours – love that! We’d love to hear more about your art. What else should we know?
I’m a visual artist. I think I’m probably most known for my fusion of different artistic styles. Right now I’m finishing up an eight piece series called Time Off and it’s all about vulnerability. Vulnerability is the essence of fear, shame and our struggle for worthiness. Yet it is also the birthplace of creativity, joy, love and belonging. To be vulnerable means to open yourself up completely, to stand in your nakedness and to lean into every imperfection. It is not easy, but necessary to elevate, grow, love, and evolve.
But…when do we get to be vulnerable? When do we get to ponder how we want to live our lives? When do we get to think about what matters most to us? When do we get to explore the heart of it all? Is it at night before bed when we are fully unmasked? Is it in our alone time? Time Off is a collection of 8 large pieces made with watercolor paper and wood panel. The series explores black people who are perceived to be strong in vulnerable positions. Pondering questions like the ones mentioned above.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Absolutely. LA is full of opportunities and most importantly people who can help you with your vision. However, I do believe that the grass is greener right under your foot. You don’t have to be in a major city to make your dreams come true.
Contact Info:
- Website: YoyoLander.com
- Instagram: @yoyolander
Image Credit:
Images courtesy of artist Yoyo Lander
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