Sofia Tokodi: Painting the Pulse of New York in Pink
Sofia Tokodi is a Hungarian-born, New York-based artist whose vibrant acrylic landscapes radiate with emotional depth and a deep admiration for the city she now calls home. Working primarily in pink, Sofia captures the rhythm and warmth of urban life through bold brushstrokes and abstract compositions. Her work is both a visual love letter to New York City and a reflection of her personal journey—one that began in a quiet town and blossomed into a dream realized.
“I’m originally from a small town in Hungary, but for the past few years, New York City has been my vibrant and inspiring home.
My journey into art began at a young age when I started taking extra painting and drawing classes in primary school at the age of six. I always had a natural talent for painting, but it wasn’t until a few years ago—when I bought my first painting kit—that I truly embraced it as my passion. I’ve been largely self-taught since then, constantly refining my craft.
I create paintings on canvas using acrylics. My work is deeply rooted in my love for the color pink, which I have been enamored with since I was a little girl. Pink, to me, represents both a personal connection and a universal warmth. Through this singular hue, I convey a spectrum of emotions and energy, creating vibrant, captivating pieces.
Through my art, I’ve poured my dreams, my love, and my admiration for New York City. Each piece I create is a reflection of my journey toward finally being here, living the dream I always had. I hope that through my art, others can feel the love I have for New York—and perhaps, for a moment, understand what it’s like to dream of a place that feels like home.”
Can you tell us about your journey as an artist? How did it all begin?
My artistic journey began when I was a little girl, taking extra art classes in primary school. I quickly discovered a natural talent for painting, and my teacher encouraged me to keep going. Over the years, I painted on and off, experimenting with different styles and mediums. Four years ago, I bought a painting kit, and what started as a hobby became my full-time passion.
What themes or ideas do you explore in your work?
In my work, I explore the deep, unwavering love I have for New York City. Each painting is a reflection of the city’s vibrant landscapes, capturing its energy and essence in a way that feels uniquely personal. I paint exclusively in pink, a color that has always symbolized my never-fading love for this place. The choice of pink represents warmth, passion, and a sense of timelessness, much like my connection to the city. Every brushstroke expresses my admiration for New York’s towering buildings, bustling streets, and the quiet moments of beauty found in unexpected places. Through my pink cityscapes, I create a world where my love for this iconic city and its unique charm is forever immortalized in a color that reflects the depth of my feelings.
Who or what inspires you the most as an artist?
Van Gogh has been my favorite painter since I was a child. His work has always captivated me, especially Starry Night, with its swirling skies and emotional depth. There's something about the way he transformed the ordinary into something extraordinary that has always resonated with me. His use of color and texture, along with the feeling of movement in his pieces, left a lasting impression on me. In my own paintings, I love sneaking elements of Starry Night into my cityscapes, using swirls and dynamic energy to infuse my work with that same sense of wonder and emotion. I draw inspiration from his ability to capture beauty in the everyday, and through my love of pink and New York, I try to create my own dreamlike interpretation of the world. Van Gogh’s influence is always there, reminding me that art can capture more than just what we see—it can reveal how we feel.
How do you handle creative blocks or periods of self-doubt?
When I face creative blocks or moments of self-doubt, I find solace in the simple act of walking through the city. I’ll put on some classical music and let the rhythm of the music guide me as I stroll through the ever-moving streets of New York. The constant flow of people, the changing light, and the energy of the city all become a source of inspiration. It’s in these moments of quiet observation that I often find new ideas stirring within me. I’m also incredibly lucky to have a strong support system. My family and friends are always there to encourage me, offering their support and giving me thoughtful, constructive feedback. Their belief in me helps me push through the doubts, reminding me that the creative process isn’t always easy but that it’s worth the journey. With their love and the city’s vibrant energy fueling me, I’m able to keep going and find new ways to express myself on the canvas.
What are your long-term goals as an artist?
My long-term goal as an artist is to become a well-known figure in the city, to have my work be synonymous with New York itself. I want my paintings to represent more than just a moment captured on canvas. I dream of my art becoming part of the fabric of the city—a piece of the feeling that so many people experience when they visit or live here. I want to build a brand that embodies the spirit of New York, one that isn’t just about selling paintings or souvenirs, but about selling a feeling. When people look at my work, I want them to feel the same love, awe, and inspiration that I do when I paint the city. I want my art to be a reminder of the beauty and energy of New York, a way for people to take a piece of that feeling home with them. Whether it’s through my paintings, I want to create something that speaks to the heart, something that reminds people of the magic of the city—of the joy, the hustle, and the love that make New York so special. That’s the legacy I hope to build.
How has the digital age and social media impacted your practice and reach as an artist?
The digital age and social media have had a tremendously positive impact on my practice as an artist. In the past, reaching a wide audience was a challenge, but now, with just a few clicks, I can share my art with people from all over the world. Social media has opened up doors to connect with fellow artists, art lovers, and collectors who I might have never encountered otherwise. It’s incredible to see my paintings resonate with people from different cultures and backgrounds, and it has expanded my reach in ways I couldn’t have imagined. The digital age has also motivated me to push my boundaries and explore new forms of art. I’ve begun experimenting with digital art, something I had never considered before. It allows me to create in new ways, reaching an even wider audience and connecting with people who may not have the space or means to collect physical paintings. It’s inspired me to keep evolving, adapting to new technologies, and connecting with people who share my love for the city and its vibrant energy.
What do you hope people feel or take away when they view your art?
When people view my art, I hope they feel the same deep love and connection to New York City that I do. I want them to experience the energy, the beauty, and the magic of the city in a way that stirs something inside them. My paintings are more than just depictions of the skyline or the streets—they are an expression of my heart, a reflection of how New York makes me feel. I want people to be reminded of the joy and excitement that comes with being part of a place so full of life. Whether they’ve lived in the city, visited, or simply dream of it, I hope my work makes them feel like they are stepping into a world that is vibrant, full of possibility, and alive with passion. It’s that feeling of love for a place—the kind of love that stays with you and never fades—that I want to share. When someone looks at my art, I want them to feel that same spark, that same connection to the city, and carry it with them long after they walk away.
