By: Kiana Diamond

From growing up in a family of artists to becoming an artist and activist herself, senior Sophia Battle has bridged a gap between art and advocacy through authentic representation. Known for transforming hip-hop lyrics and albums into visual art, Battle uses her creativity to inspire new generations and spark social change. 

Battle was surrounded by art at a young age, growing up among painters, photographers, and cartoonists. 

“All these people in my life have really shaped my creative journey and passion for art,” Battle said. “My dad is an artist and I’ve always shadowed him when he works, and I just love watching his creative process. He has been a huge influence on my process as an artist.”

Today, she creates hyperrealistic pieces using charcoal, graphite, oil paint, and more.

Although her family nurtured her artistic side, Battle’s greatest inspiration comes from hip-hop. The creativity and authenticity of hip-hop artists such as Kendrick Lamar and Lauryn Hill fuel much of her work.  By dissecting their lyrics and themes, Battle explores how hip-hop reflects injustices both the past and present.

“The growth and popularity of hip-hop has had a significant influence on the perceptions of and ideals of social and cultural topics,” Battle said. “For me, however, the interchanging values of creativity and authenticity cultivated from hip-hop is just as important to society. Throughout my visual work and process, I examine how hip-hop culture challenges and reshapes views on social issues as well as guiding identity and creativity. I have always loved to associate the lyrics and beats with vivid imagery and color.” 

One of her standout works is her “To Pimp a Butterfly”: album cover piece, titled “Liberation” where she recreates Kendrick Lamar’s third album. 

“My ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ drawing showcases how artists like Kendrick are able to shed light on important issues, such as social injustices and oppression,  that need to be addressed for greater advocacy and change,” Battle said. 

Battle’s favorite piece, however, is a self-portrait from her high scoring Advanced Placement (AP) Art Portfolio. The collage layers portraits of her favorite hip-hop artists beneath her own image.

“ I used significant moments in hip-hop culture to express meaning and how these people have shaped my creative and authentic self through art and as a person in general,” Battle said. “This piece is a reflection of me.” 

Her passion for art and activism eventually led her to found a youth-led organization called ImagnicACTION that bridges the gap between art and social change. Its purpose is to empower and educate young artists to use their voices for good.  

“We look forward to creating change in our community and allowing young artists to represent their voices as well as their true authentic passions and talents,” Battle said.

ImagnicACTION has already collaborated with the Discovery Cube, interviewed the president of the Animation Guild and Nickelodeon executives, and plans to expand its impact through fundraising for art supplies in elementary schools. 

“It all starts with art, which is an important thing all kids need,” Battle said.

Battle’s love of hip-hop has grown into a movement, one that reflects social realities and amplifies young voices. She works to inspire the next generation to use art as an outlet not just to express themselves, but to take action.