Isossy Children meets Onyinye Draws

This week Isossy Children meets Onyinye the talented illustrator and artist behind Onyinye Draws.

What inspired you to start your business?

The idea for the “Why I love my hair”  poster came to me from my 10 year old sister, her hair is natural but she often complains: “Why can’t I have it relaxed like all my friends? I want it straight”. I don’t blame her, children of African descent don’t have many natural hair role models to look up to, especially in books and cartoons, it is so hard to find a young black girl just being her natural self.

The poster was very well received worldwide through the use of social media and from there I made it my goal to celebrate young black children through my art by showing positive and inspiring images and tackling some of the serious issues that affect the black community.

What have been your favourite client experiences?

I think just knowing that children all over the world are identifying with my characters and learning to love themselves really makes my work worthwhile. One girl said she loved the drawing where the hair “stretches out to the moon” because she never thought her hair could grow long!

What advice would you give to someone starting up in your industry?

Be bold and brave, market yourself and just have fun with it!

What are your long term goals?

Well I’m working on a series children books at the moment to celebrate and educate black youth,  trying to get the message out to schools, libraries and most especially homes.

Isossy Children celebrates diversity through global clothing for children. Why do you think diversity matters for every generation?

As we are all different we should learn to celebrate our diversity! This is especially true in our time, where different cultures are sharing communities, so understanding and tolerance is key to keep relationships healthy. I believe we should educate children to appreciate diversity and learn to work together.

What words of wisdom do you think every child should grow up knowing?

You are awesome, just be yourself in everything you do and you can change the world!!

Contact Details

Email: onyinyedraws@gmail.com

Twitter: @onyinyedraws

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Onyinyedraws

Tumblr: http://onyinyedraws.tumblr.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Onyinyedraws

Instagram: Onyinyedraws