Sofia Elizabeth Montgomery was born and raised in San Jose, California. She is currently pursuing a BFA in Art at Chapman University and plans to complete her education in 2022.

          While still concentrating on her technical roots through drawing and painting, Sofia is experimenting with mixed-media work, combining traditional artistic mediums and adding elements such as performance, craft, and experimental photography. She hopes that through her artistic and educational experiences that she will broaden her knowledge of the art world and be prepared to contribute to it.

          From 2020-2021, Sofia served as Secretary of Chapman University’s Black Student Union, and is currently a member of the Chapman art department's Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and the Chapman Activist Coalition. She takes pride in being part of organizations that are dedicated to improving the conditions for students of color on Chapman's campus.

          Sofia is interested in job opportunities that will introduce her to the working art world and give her the opportunity to gain different industry experiences. She hopes to make diverse connections in the workplace to positively influence her life as well as her artwork.

          Sofia has been practicing piano since a young age, and while she plays mainly plays for her own enjoyment, she takes joy in her ability to practice an instrument that has shaped her influence in music and other artistic choices. Recently, she has also discovered a love for singing and regularly takes lessons, practicing styles such as classical, jazz, and musical theater.

          Sofia is greatly inspired by the powerful Black women that she has the privilege to see in her daily life and in digital media. They remind her that she has the ability to go far in life and should not settle for anything, but to put all of her effort into what she wants.