“You kind of have to be delusional about it because there were so many things showing me that I probably wouldn’t make it… but for me, that just wasn’t an option,” the international artist admitted — and look at her now!
Women are the real architects of society, and in honor of Women’s History Month, REVOLT is celebrating those trailblazers with the return of “She Is,” a limited series dedicated to highlighting Black and brown women breaking glass ceilings in different industries as they chat about their boss moves, overcoming obstacles in their fields and the keys to staying strong even when faced with challenges.
Past architects have included Julissa Prado, the founder of Rizos Curls; jewelry designer Jeniece Blanchet; Chef Flo; relationship manager and entertainment expert NJ Ndure, and many more, with one inspiring story after the next.
Season three is already underway and on episode two, which aired today (March 21), REVOLT sat down with Rugiyatou Ylva Jallow, a Swedish-Gambian artist based out of Los Angeles whose artwork has been featured in several galleries and museums around the world.
The burgeoning artist quickly realized earlier in her career that earning a spot in the world of fine art would not come without its obstacles.
Daughter to a Swedish mom and a West African dad, Jallow ultimately moved from her native hometown in Stockholm to America, initially to continue her education in computer animation. However, as the painter took her artistry more seriously, she knew she needed more room to grow and eventually rented out a studio.