XO Joita's early years were marked by a trajectory from one low-income housing neighborhood to the next until high school. It was in this vibrant yet challenging environment that she discovered the world

of art. High school not only provided an education but also became the fertile ground for her artistic exploration. Here, she was given the opportunity to delve into the nuances of pencil types, mediums, and styles, laying the foundation for a lifelong love affair with creativity.

 

The streets of Buffalo, with their own unique cadence, became the backdrop for the budding artist's journey. From the outset, it was evident that her journey would be one of resilience and unwavering

determination. The opportunity to intern at Starlight Art Studio, an art gallery for developmentally disabled adults, opened her eyes to the transformative power of art within diverse communities. Simultaneously, her time at Locust Street Art School, an organization dedicated to teaching various art forms on a donation basis, ignited a passion for giving back to the community.

 

As XO Joita navigated the challenging terrain of her upbringing, art became not just a form of expression but a lifeline, a sanctuary, and a medium through which she learned to navigate the complexities of her emotions. The foundation laid in Buffalo, with all its raw authenticity, would serve as the crucible from which her artistry would emerge.