Meet Sophia Kosel | Artist and Yoga Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sophia Kosel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sophia, what matters most to you?
That the world needs art. I truly believe without art we would lose so much culture and connection. I make art because I’m passionate about creating, I share my art because I truly believe that art can connect people across cultures, continents and more. It shares emotions, ideas, passions etc. I want to be a part of that connection. It makes me feel like I have a purpose and an ability to make the world a better place. There is so much focus on technology lately, but it has created a disconnection and with disconnection comes a lack of empathy and understanding that we already need a lot more of. The things that made our history great like art are what I believe we need to focus more on in this present moment because that is what will create inspiration, passion and empathy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Being an artist is never easy, it’s such a personal thing to share with the world. When I paint something, I am creating something that is an extension from my heart and soul. Often, I find that a piece has deeper meaning to me than I even realize when I’m creating it. I notice emotions, symbolism and depths aftermath that connect to whatever I am going through at the time. I have paintings about heartache, grief, vulnerability, and even confidence. Each moment I find “success” in the art world whether it’s selling a painting or being in a show I truly realize how vulnerable and brave it is for artists to just put themselves out there. While I have grown in success as an artist in these past few years I have also gotten more comfortable being myself and being vulnerable. Sometimes I think I could stop and just do art for myself, but I feel responsible to share my experiences through my art for others in order to create a connection and understanding. Being a human isn’t easy and I know what it’s like to have mental health issues. If I help just one person through my art to feel like they are being understood, then sharing my art was worth it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, I am from right outside the Twins Cities, so it really depends on the season you come. For food I love to go to Minneapolis and Saint Paul, there are some great neighborhoods like Uptown and Northeast in Minneapolis and Grand Ave and West 7th in Saint Paul that are a lot of fun and have great food. Some of my favorite restaurants are Cosetta’s, Cafe Latte, Pajarito. Hola Arepa, French Meadow Bakery, and we have some great burger joints like The Nook, The Blue door and Red Cow. For drinking and fun there’s Up down, Can-Can Wonderland and the Gay 90s for great drag and burlesque shows. You can also go to The Mall of America, Valleyfair, the large lakes in Minneapolis, Rice Park for ice-skating in the winter. Also checking out Nelsons for great ice cream.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To all my teachers that have supported me, my creativity and passions. I wouldn’t still be creating without you.

Website: https://sophiakosel.wixsite.com/sophiakoselart

Instagram: @sophiakosel