For Sofiya Stevens, the world has always been a canvas—messy, vivid, and full of possibility. From a young age, she saw art not as a skill to be mastered, but as a way to make sense of life’s moments, both ordinary and extraordinary. Each experience, to her, is a brushstroke—sometimes bold, sometimes barely visible, but always adding depth to the whole.

After earning her Honours Bachelor’s degree, Sofiya continued her academic journey with a Master of Arts. Although her formal studies focused outside of art, painting had always been a meaningful part of her life. Having taken lessons at private art schools growing up, art remained a steady presence—an outlet, a discipline, and a unique way of seeing the world.

Inspired by Pablo Picasso, Sofiya embraces imperfection and playfulness in her work, striving to preserve a sense of childlike wonder in her paintings. “It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child,” Picasso once said—a sentiment Sofiya holds close.

Though she has explored a range of mediums, her heart ultimately belongs to oil on canvas. Her paintings often carry a sense of mystery, with certain elements left deliberately unsaid—inviting the viewer’s imagination to step in and complete the story.

Sofiya also lends her time to charitable causes and has volunteered at events in support of organizations such as Interval House of Ottawa and the Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign.

Through her work, Sofiya invites viewers to see the world through fresh eyes. She hopes her paintings feel a little bit like remembering a dream—familiar yet strange, simple yet full of meaning—and always, somehow, magical.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

As an emerging artist, life is my canvas, where
each experience paints a new layer of meaning.
Inspired by Picasso, I cherish innocence in my
art, striving to maintain a sense of naivety.
Picasso’s words resonate: "It took me a lifetime
to paint like a child." I aim to keep that childlike
wonder alive in my work, drawing from
personal experiences —travel, love, and the
comfort of home. My art captures emotions with
vibrant brushstrokes and colors, often enhanced
by the dynamic use of palette knife. Through my
creations, I share warmth and inspiration,
inviting others into my emotional world.