STARR SOLIÉ
New York, NY
2023-2024 Scholarship Fashion Institute of Technology
Scholarship 2022-present
Starr Solié is pursuing a BFA in Spatial Experience Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in NYC. Solié has earned two Associates Degrees in Applied Science (AAS) from FIT as prerequisites for the Spatial Experience Design program that she will begin in the fall of 2023. In May 2023 she earned an AAS in Communication Design Foundation and in 2020 she earned an AAS in Fine Art. “Through my art, I aim to explore and challenge societal norms and stereotypes surrounding race, gender, and identity,” says Solié. “Many of my subjects are African American women and men and I take scenarios from my life experiences to build the backstories for many of my paintings.”
When painting, she primarily uses acrylic paint, though likes to experiment with other mediums. “I often clothe my figures in used t-shirts and use molding paste to sculpt the hair.” The inspiration for her paintings’ figures is drawn from the African diaspora and contemporary pop culture. "I want to send the message of freedom of expression and daring to do things that are out of the box.”
“As a black woman in the art and design industry, I am acutely aware of the lack of representation and diversity. Through my work and advocacy, I hope to inspire and empower other women of color to pursue their passions and make their voices heard. Ultimately, my goal as a visual artist and graphic designer is to create work that not only resonates with viewers on a personal level but also contributes to a larger conversation about representation, social justice, and the power of art to effect change.”
Starr Solié first joined the YAYA Guild in 2013.
All works are copyright of the artist.