The Admirable Oba | Meet Fatoumata S #SetTheTableIntern
Art is everything to me." For Oba, this isn’t just a saying, it’s a way of life for her. Originally from Gambia, she carries the values and traditions from her home, especially when it comes to artistic expression. She’s constantly driven by creativity, passion, and a desire to make a difference in theworld around her.
Kissa: If you had to describe yourself beyond just a name, how would you introduce who you are?
Oba: I would call myself the girl from Gambia. I grew up in Gambia and moved to the U.S. for a new beginning. It definitely shaped my beliefs, how I look at the world, and go towards my goals. It has given me a lot of unique experiences having to adapt to the American lifestyle then I feel it would be being born in the U.S.
Kissa: Are there any defining moments, values, or personality traits you have that you would like to share?
Oba: I would say my artistic ability. To me, art is everything. Even back home, where art took different forms like patterned clothing and decorated houses. it still influences how I create and approach my work.
Kissa: Where do you see yourself in five years, and what’s a dream you’re working toward?
Oba: Honestly, I don't even know what I want to do tomorrow! I want to get my work in a museum, get my degree, find a well-paying job, travel the world, and just be successful. The museum means a lot to me. I've already had my work in one, and that gave me so much motivation and hope that my art can become something.
Kissa: What excites you most about The Dinner Table internship? How do you hope to grow or contribute?
Oba: I did a three day event with them once, and it was a great experience. I got to see how things were run, meet a lot of people, and connect with others who are like minded and share my interests. As for what I hope to bring to the internship, I want to contribute my creativity, and grow both as an artist and as a person.
Kissa: If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be and what’s the story behind it?
Oba: I would tell my younger self, ‘I’m proud of you, and you should always chase your dreams.’ When I was younger, I tried so hard to be perfect. I always pushed myself to meet impossible standards. Those thoughts really shaped me and turned me into an overachiever. While that drive has helped me accomplish a lot, I’d want my younger self to know that it's okay to let go of perfection and just follow what makes me happy.
What I admire most about Oba is how she embraces her culture and uses it as a driving force in her art. Her journey isn’t just about creating for herself, it’s about using her creativity to inspire and change perspectives.