Sheila Fox, also known as Godiva Goddess, is a self-taught mixed media artist based in Louisville, KY. Her work blends fabric, resin, and textured layers to celebrate beauty, strength, and elegance. Inspired by vintage fashion, cultural heritage, and nature, her pieces reflect both softness and power. Each creation tells a story through color, texture, and timeless style. We recently talked with Sheila about her time as an artist and her all new exhibit, Textured Heritage, which will be hosted at The Kentucky Center – MeX Theater May 5 – 11.

Did you always want to be an artist?
SF: Yes, I really believe I was born with art in me. Growing up on the West Side of Chicago wasn’t easy; surrounded by gangs, drugs, and violence. I was the fifth of ten kids, (4 boys, 6 girls) and my mother did her best to keep us safe and out of trouble. She’d bring home fabric, thread, coloring books, and mannequin heads with hair. While other kids played outside, my sisters and I were on the floor learning how to braid, sew doll clothes, or color inside the lines.

That was her way of protecting us, but it also became the spark that lit my creative fire. Art became my escape, my comfort, and my way of seeing beauty in a world that sometimes felt heavy. I’ve always been a creative person, it’s just always been in me.

How did you get your start? How long have you been an artist?

SF: I’ve been sketching and drawing for over 25 years, but I didn’t start painting and really putting my work out there until about 8 years ago. In 2023, I got laid off from my welding job, and at the time it felt like the rug was pulled from under me. I was hurt, confused, and unsure of what was next.

But looking back, it was truly a blessing in disguise. That moment gave me the push I needed to finally pursue art full-time, something I had always dreamed of. Having that time to pour into my passion helped my skills grow so much.

And honestly, having a supportive partner made all the difference. His patience, love, and the way he pours into me every single day has helped me more than I can explain. I don’t think I’d be where I am now without that steady support beside me

Can you tell us more about the medium(s) you use in your work?

SF: I work mostly in mixed media, using things like acrylic paint, oil pastel, fabric, lace, resin, hot glue, air-dry clay, and even jewelry to create rich textures. My goal is to make each piece feel layered and full of life, almost like it's coming off the canvas.

Because of my background in welding, I love adding little touches that mimic metal; like soldering effects or bronze finishes, to give the look of stained glass or sculptural details. I even use mesh wire sometimes for added dimension. I'm always experimenting and looking for new ways to bring my ideas to life. Mixed media really gives me the freedom to be as creative as I want to be.

What can we expect to see at your upcoming show, Textured Heritage?

SF: You’ll see a heartfelt collection of women and men dressed in a mix of vintage and modern styles, everything from lace and fabric to jewels and metal-like details. This show is really about celebrating where we come from, how we express ourselves, and the beauty in our uniqueness.

There will be stylish men in textured suits and top hats, and women with Afros styled by nature herself. You’ll see influences of Victorian fashion, steampunk touches, and timeless elegance, all brought to life with a stained glass effect finish that adds depth and glow to each piece. It’s all about honoring heritage through fashion, texture, and imagination.

What’s the inspiration for the pieces we’ll see in the show?

SF: The inspiration comes from the beauty I see in vintage fashion, nature, and those bold, expressive styles from the past, like Baroque details, the Victorian era, and even the 70s. There’s something about the elegance of ruffled collars mixed with natural textures or a 90s high-top fade paired with a floral suit that just speaks to me.

In Textured Heritage, you’ll see different eras of fashion blending together in unexpected and beautiful ways, with floral touches and symbolic details throughout. This collection is really about freedom, beauty, and divine design. I’ve always believed when you look good, you feel good and I hope my art gives people that same “feel good” energy. It's a celebration of personal style, cultural pride, and the strength passed down through generations.

Hair seems to be a big part of your work. What kind of styles will we see?

SF: Yes, hair is definitely a signature part of my work. Most of the hairstyles in my pieces are inspired by nature and created entirely with fabric. You’ll see Afros and regal updos made of suede and other materials shaped into tropical leaves, sunflowers, roses, and orchids just to name a few. Their hair looks as if it’s styled by the Earth, not by human hands.

I absolutely love using wire mesh to mimic the look of coily, textured hair. Everything is sealed with a resin finish that gives it a glass-like shine, so much so, you can even see your reflection in the artwork. Hair is one of the most personal and expressive parts of who we are. It tells a story, and in my art, it’s always front and center, celebrated in all its beauty.

How does it feel to be premiering this solo exhibit at The Kentucky Center?

SF: It honestly feels surreal, and I’m just so grateful. To have my work showcased in a space like The Kentucky Center -- this moment feels like everything I’ve been working toward, and to see it coming to life is truly a blessing. It’s a reminder to keep going, even when the road feels uncertain.

How are you preparing for your solo exhibit?

SF: It’s been a mix of late nights, lots of prayer, and staying focused. I’m pouring my whole heart into every piece, making sure each detail feels intentional and true to the story I want to tell. I’m also learning to trust the process and give myself grace as I grow through it.

This show is also letting me tap into all the parts of me, my inner hair stylist, makeup artist, and fashion designer, to help bring these visions to life. It’s been challenging, but honestly, I’m loving every minute of it.

Why should people come out and see Textured Heritage?

SF: Because it’s more than just an art show; it’s an experience on canvas. Every piece is layered with story, texture, and meaning. It celebrates fashion, history, and identity in a way that feels personal and powerful. If you love creativity, culture, and artwork made from the heart, this show is for you.

 

Click HERE for more information on Textured Heritage.