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Sharika Mahdi is an accomplished fine artist known for her vibrant and expressive works. Mahdi’s remarkable talent caught the attention of Disney, leading her to create four historic commissions for their new adventure world based on The Princess and the Frog opening in late 2024.

The NFL Superbowl Committee commissioned her to create an oversized football for the Football Public Art Installation in 2013. This project allowed her to display their artistic skills on a grand scale of, leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant city of New Orleans. Her art was also collected and praised by Renee Goldsberry and the late Dr. Maya Angelou.

A New Orleans native and graduate of Louisiana State University, Sharika’s artistic journey evolved through the Young Aspirations Young Artists (YA/YA) Arts Center. Her art has been exhibited worldwide, including Cologne, New York, Paris, Amsterdam, Milan, and Rome, influencing her unique style and worldview.

 As a graduate of LSU in communications, she eventually became inspired to pursue painting and art education. Mahdi, an alum of Young Aspirations Young Artists (YA/YA) Arts Center nurtured to launch her creative talent and art career. Sharika’s journey into art with YA/YA exposed her to numerous art show opportunities as well as philanthropy. In her early years Sharika had the honor of being part of the POP Art Convention Group Mural Project in Cologne, Germany. Her art was featured in the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations by participating in a group exhibit in New York. This prestigious opportunity allowed her to contribute her artistic voice to an event of global significance. In addition, she had explored the artistic landscapes of Paris, Amsterdam, Milan, and Rome. This immersive experience in Europe’s cultural capitals undoubtedly influenced her artistic style and worldview. In 2013, Sharika held her solo art exhibit titled “RePurposing NOLA Gallery” in New Orleans. Mahdi participated in group shows at the M Gallery including “A Joyful Life Exhibit,” “Handful of Hope” and the “Celebrating Sisters.” The New Orleans Museum of Art featured Sharika’s work in the exhibition “Reparation: A Collection of Contemporary Artists,” further solidifying her reputation as an artist of note.

Mahdi’s work was shown at the Wood is Wonderful Gallery Group Art Exhibit in Atlanta earning her recognition as an Emerging Artist at the Atlanta Jazz Festival the same she was also awarded the esteemed Emerging Artist Award by Essence Marketplace in New Orleans. She contributed to the Dream Chair Art Exhibit & Workshop in Emeryville, CA, where she created captivating non wall art. Mahdi’s artwork continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide. With a remarkable portfolio that blends unique styles, techniques, and subject matters, they invite viewers to explore the depths of their imagination and find inspiration in her thought-provoking creations.