When anxiety strikes Keely Majewski, as it so often does for each of us, art has become a form of therapy for her to feel at ease. Known to many by her nickname “Poi”, the Florida-based illustrator has gained a sizable following over Instagram for creating beguiling female characters that look like 3D rendered Bratz dolls, if they were targeted towards adults, and placed in a dystopian future.
Digitally created with rich textures, punchy colors, exaggerated features, and fashion styles that are both imaginary and inspired by ‘90s and early ’00s silhouettes, Poi’s women are strong, sexual, and unapologetic — traits she purposefully imbues in each to “embody the strength and attitude I strive for in my own life,” she tells Hypeart.
With an unmistakable style and an attention to detail, it would surprise many to learn that Poi hadn’t even touched 3D art before the pandemic. In fact, she went on a five year drawing hiatus prior to 2020, instead focusing on journalism, and interviewing a number of artists daily. This prior apt for music, however, continues to seep its way back into the work — from the highly dramatic and sensual motifs of her character stances to the clothing they are clad in.
Spanish singer Rosalía was impressed to the point that she even commissioned Poi to design promotional art for a live event. “When I think about that time it still doesn’t feel real,” she adds. I’m extremely grateful and honored to have had that validation early on when I had just started making art again.
For the latest Pen & Paper, Hypeart caught up with the reinvigorated artist to discuss the origins of her practice, the process of creating each of her highly rendered characters, and how art can be used as a form of therapy.
