QUIN ERDOO: FEMALE PAINTER SET TO PAINT THE WORLD
(Interview)
Queen Oryer, popularly known as Quin Erdoo, a graduate of Mass Communication is a Tiv girl from Gwer- East Local Governmsfent Area of Benue State. Queen had a stint as a bank staff but resigned to face her painting. She spoke to THE TRANSMITTER about her new found profession. Excerpts:
What inspired you to pursue a career in painting?
Let me tell you about the one hour that provided the inspiration which changed my life. It came at a time I was working in the bank. I had the pleasure of accompanying my friend, who is an engineer to a site where she was involved in some painting work and I was enthralled to see a female painter at work for the very first time. That was how the inspiration came to me.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey to becoming a female painter?
Yeah. It was one of my early days as a painter, the journey wasn’t always smooth, but it was been guided by a growing sense of purpose and a belief in the power of art for connecting, inspiring and enriching both myself as others. So, on this particular day, I sought for a painting job and I was called to the site where I discovered I was the only female among the painters that were selected. When we started the work, the supervisor rated me above every other painter, and his gratifying compliments were such a relief for my sagging spirit.
Gradually, the realization that I could use my art to express my unique perspective and contribute to the world was a defining moment in my journey as a female painter, leading me to pursue it more seriously and dedicating myself to developing my artistic work as a female painter.
How do you see painting evolving as a profession for ladies?
Women are actively breaking down barriers in traditionally male/dominated areas like constructions and painting, with companies actively promoting their goals. The realization that art wasn’t just a hobby but a vital part of my identity and a way to express my unique perspective came to me in informal practice and growing dissatisfaction with a more conventional career path.
What impact do you think your work can have for society?
Good works or acts of kindness and service, have a profound impact both on the individuals performing them and society as a whole, these actions ranging from small gestures of kindness to large scale philanthropic efforts can create positive change and foster a sense of community and connectivity. Recently, my philanthropic efforts led me to carry out an outreach tagged “Colours of Hope Outreach” at the Mama Abayol Orphanage here in Makurdi.
What advise do you have for aspiring female painters?
The key advice is to be focused on developing your skills, building a strong portfolio and finding a supportive community. Embrace your unique perspective, seek out opportunities for learning and growth. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your voice, study the fundamentals, learn about colors, share your work to the world, use social media, galleries and other platforms to get your work seen, learn from others and seek mentorship. You’ll be great and do better with these tips.
