Sharika Mahdi is an accomplished artist, and author with a rich history of participating in exhibits, and installations, displaying her vibrant and colorful expressive works. Her work has been praised by many collectors and enthusiasts including the late Dr. Maya Angelou who had several pieces in her collection. A commission piece created for Dr. Angelou with her and her best friend she said “She did a fantastic job!”. In 2023, Disney sought out Mahdi to assist with the development of the new adventure world they are building based on The Princess and the Frog. Disney commissioned the New Orleans native to capture authenticity of the region where its story takes place through her colorful artistic palette. Sharika Mahdi is the first visual artist commissioned by Disney to create a visual world for their rides outside of their Imagineers. Disney’s Senior Vice President of Creative Development shared that Sharika’s ideas were the catalyst behind the Imagineers creations.  

    Mahdi attained undergraduate and graduate degrees from Louisiana State University (LSU) in communications, and eventually became inspired to pursue painting and art education. Mahdi joinedYoung Aspirations Young Artists (YA/YA) Arts Center who nurtured 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 Koln, 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.

   The NFL Superbowl Committee commissioned her to create an oversized football for the Football PublicArt Installation in 2013. This project allowed her to showcase their artistic skills on a grand scale of, leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant city of New Orleans.

   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.

For Inquiries Contact:  Beryl Basham Fine Art at 1- 877-595-9095