Sofia’s champion for The Wick is Ottavia Marchitelli, Director, Senior Specialist – Impressionist & Modern Art at Christie’s. She said: “I am a great admirer of Violeta Sofia as both an artist and photographer. Her vision seamlessly bridges mediums, creating work that feels both timeless and immediate. Violeta is not only an artist but a storyteller with a message of change and evolution. Through her creations, she pushes the boundaries of photography and painting, shaping her own artistic language with unapologetic authenticity. Her style feels familiar yet entirely new — a rare balance between tradition and innovation. Violeta’s sumptuous Hand Masters carry emotional depth and a strong sense of identity, inviting viewers to reflect and connect. There is a depth in her work that resonates far beyond elegant aesthetics, engaging the viewer in a dialogue of truth and transformation. I believe her artistry stands in a league of its own — bold, evocative, and profoundly original.”

Vitiligo is also a profound influence: it has transformed my body and, in turn, my art. The depigmentation of my hands became both a subject and a metaphor — like flowers, they are constantly changing, fragile yet resilient, and uniquely beautiful. By combining these inspirations, I aim to create work that speaks of self-acceptance, impermanence, and the poetry of transformation. She tells The Wick that among her biggest achievements to date has been “transforming my personal journey with vitiligo into art that resonates with others.”

Sofia’s The Hand Masters series, in particular, “has been deeply meaningful — not only as a way of reclaiming and celebrating my own body, but also as a visual metaphor for transformation and beauty beyond convention. For me, the greatest achievement is seeing how my art can connect with people, making them feel seen, empowered, or inspired.” At a time when social and political divides seem to be widening the empathy gap and shaping negative views of immigration, Sofia’s work is also a reminder of the importance of community, visibility and understanding. “Through creative collaborations and inclusive initiatives, I aim to create spaces that celebrate shared humanity and highlight the strength found in diversity.”

“If I had to highlight one thing, it would be exhibiting at the National Portrait Gallery and being able to propose and achieve a new exhibition that demonstrated greater inclusion and diversity. That was a milestone for me. But overall, I’d say my biggest achievement is simply being able to live my life as an artist — choosing photography and art, committing to it fully, and seeing my work grow and be shown in incredible spaces. That journey itself is what I’m most proud of.”