Sozomaika on Blending Haute Couture with Comics
“I think there’s moments where comics and fashion have had a dialogue with each other and I want to be part of that.”
Sozomaika, Critically Acclaimed Artist
Sozomaika is a critically acclaimed artist whose work has become iconic.
Go into almost any comic book shop and there will likely be a cover by Sozomaika of a fashionable femme fatale emoting vibrant energy and confidence. Her work has been commissioned by major companies such as DC Comics, Image Comics, Wired, Under Armour, Riot Games–and that is just what is listed in her bio.
And while Sozomaika is a self-proclaimed introvert, those who meet her will find a down-to-earth and earnest conversationalist. It’s these moments that make supporting artists like Sozomaika incredibly effortless. Not just because she’s earned every bit of respect from her portfolio, but when artists put their heart into their work and make time for fans, you can’t help but cheer for every success they achieve.
During the 2025 Bedrock City Con, Sozomaika was generous in answering questions about her work, her love of Catwoman, and her artistic journey.
Seth A. Romo: You’ve talked about your love of fashion in previous interviews. When it comes to illustrating famous characters, how is their wardrobe factored into your style?
Sozomaika: My art incorporates mixed media, so I’ll scan fabrics or paper textures. Also, I like to play with the cut of costumes. I’ll add structure or tailor it a little better. I like to think about garment construction when I approach a piece and consider how the fabric would actually flow. I get design sheets, but for example I illustrated Power Girl and thought of 80s power suits with sharp shoulders and thick fabric. Being mindful of those kinds of things can really change the impression of an outfit.
In your artistic journey, how did fashion and comics come to be part of your work?
What was iconic to me when I was a little girl was watching Toby Maguire as Peter Parker sitting there designing his Spidey-suit. I recall thinking, “that would probably be my favorite part about being a vigilante, just sketching and thinking about what I want to say to the world with my outfit.” To a degree (chuckles), superheroes have to be fashion designers. It’s convenient how all of them somehow figured their way around a sewing machine. I think there’s moments where comics and fashion have had a dialogue with each other and I want to be part of that.
Of all your work, is there a character you resonate with?
I’ve always liked Catwoman and always resonated with her personality so every year for my birthday, I would draw Catwoman. That’s actually how I was discovered on Pinterest. However, my first introduction to Catwoman was the Halle Berry movie (Even with the infamous basketball scene?) I hate that scene! I always skip it! But I had the game and I know it like the back of my hand. And of course there is also Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman–her design is especially iconic.
In addition to the mixed media style, so often your portraits feel like an energetic scene in a photography studio. How has photography come to play in your style?
I studied photography and used to shoot local rappers and aspiring models. One of my favorite photographers is Ellen von Unwerth. She’s famous for a lot of her fashion photography. I found out about her in a random issue of Elle Magazine when I was a teenager. As I’ve gotten older, I find myself thinking about those connections. As an artist I think it’s important to reach back to your roots to consider how you came to a certain conclusion. When I put finishing touches on my pieces, my editing is like that of a photographer.
When thinking about what you would tell a younger version of yourself, what would you be excited to share?
I come from a small town, so if you had told me that I would get to go to Japan, Mexico, and Singapore for conventions–and that people would know my art, I never would have believed you. It’s rewarding to see that my work is able to reach so many people and it keeps me going. It’s easy to get frustrated but then a kid will come over and tell me, “Oh, I collect all your stuff!” And then I’m like, well, I guess I can’t quit now.
You note in your bio that you’re a self-taught artist, but reflecting on your work setting industry standards, how does that feel and what are you looking forward to working on?
I’ve never thought of my work that way, but I am grateful people appreciate what I’ve done. I kind of exist in a vacuum and just draw. But I’m thinking it’s time to start working on my own IP. I have stories that I’ve shelved and I think it’s time to invest in myself. I think people are hungry for something new.
This interview was written by Seth Adrian Romo. All quotes were edited for clarity.