How Jessie Sohpaul found a place between the worlds of art and design.

How would you describe your profession and your practice?

I am an artist and designer creating work that explores themes of identity, heritage, and home.

Has your work changed over the course of your career?

My career has evolved from being an artist with a design background to one that overlaps both fields.

What was your “eureka!” moment that made you realize that art/design was the route you wanted to take?

My “eureka!” moment came when I realized that art allows me to ask questions, while design focuses on solutions. I enjoy working in the space between the two.

Is your work inspired by anything in particular? What turns you on creatively?

My work is inspired by my Punjabi heritage, my family’s journey, and the stories my mom told me growing up.

Which designers or artists inspire you and why?

There are many, but the late Virgil Abloh stands out for his ability to fuse art, design, and culture, while understanding and reinterpreting these elements to create his own world and shift culture.

What is the name of the DesignTO Project you’re exhibiting in and what is the name of the piece you are sharing?

I will be showing “Archway Seating” at the exhibition ‘REVIVE’.

What can attendees expect to experience when seeing your work?

Attendees can expect to experience a culturally rooted piece that blends cultural storytelling with the heritage and history of the South Asian diaspora in Vancouver.

Lastly, what random fact about yourself would you like to share with the DesignTO community?

I designed a specialty jersey for the Vancouver Canucks.