A computer science student is building a rep with nothing but pencils and paper. Martha Mendy, a self-taught artist at the University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology, stands out in The Gambia's creative scene. Her artistic shift started after seeing a black-and-white portrait of artist Pascal Mendy online. She decided to attempt drawing a human portrait for the first time.
Mendy spent hours on that initial sketch, which closely captured Pascal Mendy's likeness. Sharing the piece online triggered a major response, with the subject himself reposting her work. That moment launched her portrait career into public view. Her dedication to pencil art and painting earned her a scholarship and significant media attention.
She received a nomination for the She Awards in the Artist of the Year category. Mendy expressed feeling humbled as the youngest nominee among established figures. She believes patience defines artistry more than innate magic, with better results following greater time investment. Her current work focuses on celebrating excellence and honoring inspirational people.
Mendy draws creative inspiration from Nigerian artists like Mayo. Her broader goal involves elevating Gambian art for global recognition. She hopes to inspire change and create opportunities for upcoming generations. Quoting scripture, she noted how a personal gift can create pathways and open doors.
She encourages young people to begin their journeys without waiting for perfection. Mendy advises trusting the process, stating that starting is the prerequisite for achieving greatness. Her story demonstrates how a casual school hobby transformed into a defining professional pursuit.
Mendy spent hours on that initial sketch, which closely captured Pascal Mendy's likeness. Sharing the piece online triggered a major response, with the subject himself reposting her work. That moment launched her portrait career into public view. Her dedication to pencil art and painting earned her a scholarship and significant media attention.
She received a nomination for the She Awards in the Artist of the Year category. Mendy expressed feeling humbled as the youngest nominee among established figures. She believes patience defines artistry more than innate magic, with better results following greater time investment. Her current work focuses on celebrating excellence and honoring inspirational people.
Mendy draws creative inspiration from Nigerian artists like Mayo. Her broader goal involves elevating Gambian art for global recognition. She hopes to inspire change and create opportunities for upcoming generations. Quoting scripture, she noted how a personal gift can create pathways and open doors.
She encourages young people to begin their journeys without waiting for perfection. Mendy advises trusting the process, stating that starting is the prerequisite for achieving greatness. Her story demonstrates how a casual school hobby transformed into a defining professional pursuit.
