Erik R. Sosa is quickly making a name for himself in the Chicago artworld as one of the most original and innovative new artists to be painting the Midwest. Having started his painting career in 2002, Sosa has already mounted four self exhibitions, been featured in collective shows, received national recognition and has proven to be a stalwart of the non-profit community for his generosity.
Sosa's incredible talent and vision have helped him earn the coveted VOX/Out Emerging Voices of Style + Design award this year. This highly respected industry award was created in 2001 by VOX® Vodka and Out magazine to honor openly gay and lesbian individuals whose works have come to signify style, vision and design.
Born in Mexico City, D.F, Sosa and his family moved to Chicago in 1975. He grew up in and around the Ravenswood neighborhood. Sosa, received his Bachelor of Arts in the field of Communications from the College of Wooster in Ohio in 1997. Sosa currently resides in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood.
What made you decide to take up art?
In 2002 I had a fall out with my employer and decided to quit my job in professional fundraising. During unemployment, I started painting in order to pass the time, giving away paintings to friends as gifts. I have always loved crayons and coloring books, so I started out with basic colors and shapes. I am slowly finding way through forms and styles, always making it original and fresh.
How long have you been doing this for?
I would say five years going on six, and I have been so fortunate to have received such support and recognition of my work in such a short period of time.
What are some of the people that are influential to you?
That is a difficult question because all people, in general, are very influential. Personalities and lifestyles interest me, they vary so much, from the vagabond on the street, to my mother, to other artist like Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, Joan Miro and M.C Escher to name a few.
I understand you won the Vox Out Award last year, how did that make you feel?
I had many emotions about it, but most of all I was humbled by the experience. The funny thing is that I had heard of the VOX Out Awards and always wanted to be a recipient. The best thing about the experience is getting emails or letter from other gay Latinos who think of me as a source of inspiration.
You’re also big when it comes to charities and recently competed in the AIDS Marathon in Florence . What made you decide to do this?
Currently in 4th, AIDS will soon be the 3rd major cause of death world-wide. I decided to run the marathon because at the time when I was deciding if I should run or not, my best friend told me he had just tested positive so I decided to run for him. However, because I just adopted two boys from Guatemala , and came home earlier than expected, I was not able to run I in Florence . I think running would have been great, but raising the money for my training was just as important.
Have you decided on what you next big challenge will be yet?
I am sure my two six month old sons, Cole and Parker, will keep me on my toes and influence the colors I pick up and the lines I will create.
Being a fellow Chicagoan you represented us in the Mr. Gay Competition what was that like?
AI had a great experience. Like the Gay Games, it is always a great thing when you can meet and socialize with other gay men around the country and world.
After having the Gay Games here in Chicago and you being named the Gay Games VII Commemorative Poster Winner, what else do you want to achieve?
I am looking forward to my summer show, “Is That Oil On My Hands?” But, most recently Extreme Makeover: Home Edition family wrapped up in Chicago and a painting of mine is being used as the art piece for their living room. So, this January I will taping that edition.
I knew a few of my readers would like to know if you’re single or with a partner?
I have a great partner of five years! I’m the right brain. He is the left brain. So, we work very well as a team!
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Two of Erik's up coming events are
and
Sunday, December 10, Art Show and Wine and Cheese tasting, at Uptown Recording, 4656 North Clifton, from 5:00-7:00 pm Uptown Recording
For mor information or to Contact Erik you can reach him at his web site.
Erik R. Sosa
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