Fractal Phoenix: Light & Shadow Art

Iam Sumassoh, Canada

My art possesses a wild side characterized by immense versatility. I delved into sculpture-styled art at a young age, around 5-7 years old, influenced by my father, a skilled carpenter/artist proficient in drafting blueprints, and my grandfather, an accomplished entrepreneur and inventor with patents to his name. Both invested significant time in shaping me into the artist I am today. By age 16, I had acquired proficiency in various trades, leveraging my natural dexterity to excel in welding. Mastery in the fusion and pattern development of this trade further fueled my artistic pursuits. However, my twenties and thirties were somewhat obscured by a birth defect that manifested at age 21, leading to temporary paralysis. Thankfully, after enduring three days of excruciating pain, my legs regained functionality. Subsequently, I was prescribed a potent substance that triggered a downward spiral of suffering, culminating in a federal prison sentence due to addiction-driven criminal activities. This dark period was marked by a single-minded pursuit of opioids, overshadowing the importance of my family. Reflecting on my life, I recognize that every decision and path has led me to a point where I wouldn't alter a single thing, except perhaps embracing my artistic inclinations sooner.