Vents Magazine

Lissa Mel’s Journey into the World of Art

[as originally published on: ventsmagazine.com]

Lissa Mel is an Israeli artist, gallerist, entrepreneur, and fashion designer whose work is represented by the renowned Centaur Gallery in Las Vegas. In 2022 she combined her two passions, painting and fashion, and launched her own hoodie and apparel collection called Loren Marie. She’s since founded her own Santa Monica-based gallery, The Messengers Art Gallery, created hundreds of pieces of artwork, and collaborated with such iconic designers as Michael Kors. We caught up with Lissa to discuss her art, fashion brand, recent collaboration with the Michael Kors brand, and more.

You were born in Uzbekistan before moving to Israel. Those must have been quite different experiences. How did that move impact you, perhaps your art, and do you identify more as Uzbekistani or Israeli?

I primarily identify as Israeli, as it was the country we moved to when I was little. In Uzbekistan, my exposure to art came through my art class and my mother. However, it was in Israel where my artistic journey truly took shape. Exploring museums and galleries in Tel Aviv, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, provided me with exposure to international art.

Initially, the move was a shock, and leaving behind the familiar surroundings and friends was extremely challenging. My childhood in Israel was quite difficult, and everything about the culture and language felt unfamiliar. But eventually, around the age of 16, I found my place and began to flourish in Israel.

My experiences have had a profound impact on my art serving as a means of expression for the myriad of emotions I have encountered. One of my painting series entitled “Flowers of Devotion” symbolizes the beauty that can emerge from even the most arduous of circumstances. Through my artwork, my wish is to convey the resilience and transformative power of the human spirit.

What are your earliest memories of creating art?

My earliest memories of creating art can be traced back to my first-grade years. It was during this time that I crafted a memorable piece in school—a painting featuring a man holding a globe in his hand. What made this artwork stand out was my innovative use of materials. Despite it being a painting on canvas, I managed to transform the globe into a half globe creating a three-dimensional effect that resembled a sculpture emerging from the painting. Even now, the process behind creating that piece remains a mystery to me. No one had taught me how to paint, especially with a sculptural touch. As a child in a regular school, the experience felt truly magical. The impact of my artwork didn’t go unnoticed. The teacher displayed it in the school’s hallway. This moment of recognition and encouragement ignited a spark within me, setting me on a lifelong artistic journey.

When and why did you move to Los Angeles? What challenges did you face in doing so? Is there any advice you would you give yourself having successfully made that move?

In 2019, I initially came to Los Angeles as a tourist, but unexpected circumstances arose preventing me from returning to Israel at that point in my life. It was a challenging time for me in the United States as I had no family, friends, or work permit. To cope with my traumas and heal myself, I turned to yoga and attended daily classes. I was fortunate enough to be offered free classes in exchange for volunteering as an assistant for over a year. This experience had a profound impact on me, transforming me into a better version of myself.

Yoga became my lifeline as I navigated many difficulties during my first three years in Los Angeles. It was a nightmarish period, the lowest of lows. I could barely afford art materials and, without a studio, I had to paint in my bedroom. This didn’t stop me from making art though. I created smaller artworks during that time, unlike the larger pieces I would later produce in 2022 and beyond.

Reflecting on my journey, if I could advise my past self with the knowledge I now possess, I would emphasize the importance of staying focused on the big picture. My initial vision was to use art and creativity to make a positive impact and help others. Additionally, I would caution myself to be more discerning when it comes to certain individual as I’ve found that appearances can often be deceiving.

Some artists say they experience a wide variety of feelings when looking at a blank canvas. What do you feel?

The era of blank canvases in my artistic journey ended long ago, most likely after my college years. Since then, I have come to realize that my canvas is always prepared, although not necessarily in a physical form. It resides deep within the recesses of my mind where a constant stream of visions and ideas for future art pieces flow. However, the abundance of concepts can be overwhelming at times, with over a thousand ideas waiting to be brought to life. As I navigate through this sea of inspiration, I must carefully choose which project to pursue next. Every day, new sources of inspiration arise, adding to the ever-expanding list.

Where do you draw your artistic inspiration from?

My artistic inspiration flows from the convergence of my inner perceptions and the outer world creating a tapestry of creativity. A significant source of ideas lies within my daily meditation practice where I plunge into the depths of consciousness and receive vivid images and concepts that breathe life into my artwork. In addition to introspection, I find inspiration by immersing myself in the vibrancy of the world around me. The infinite beauty and intricate details of nature evoke a profound sense of awe and wonder. Music, too, acts as a powerful catalyst for emotions that manifest as vivid visual imagery in my works. Also, witnessing live dance performances and human bodies interacting with both space and one another activates my creative process. The dynamism of these movements inspires me to infuse my art with an electrifying energy to brings it to life. By embracing both the contemplative introspection of meditation and the stimuli of the external world, I fuse diverse influences to create my unique artistic language.

We’re elated to hear about the galleries your work is featured in. What is it like to have your work featured in such prominent establishments?

I am currently showcasing my artwork at the impressive Centaur Art Gallery in Las Vegas, alongside well-known artists like Kazanskiy Mikhail Sergeyevich, Itzchak Tarkay, and original works by Salvador Dali. This opportunity fills me with appreciation and validation for my creativity. Recently, I exhibited my art at Gallery 612 in Santa Monica, marking my entry into the thriving Los Angeles art scene. Some of my artwork in currently on view at The Messengers Art Gallery in Santa Monica. I am excited to announce my participation in the upcoming SuperFine Los Angeles Art Fair from October 12-15, 2023. This event offers a chance to connect with artists and collectors worldwide, expanding the impact of my work. Displaying my art in well-established galleries and participating in international art events motivates me to push boundaries and explore new horizons.

We think it is exciting that you merged fine art and fashion. Did that collaboration of personal interests come naturally to you? How did you get the idea?

The fusion of fine art and fashion has been a lifelong passion for me. Since my early years, I dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, spending countless hours sketching my own creations. Despite having the opportunity to attend a prestigious fashion school in Milan, I chose to pursue an arts education in Israel. However, my desire to merge art and fashion remained unwavering, waiting for the perfect moment to flourish. For me, the convergence of art and fashion is a natural progression allowing me to express my boundless creativity while providing a platform for others to showcase their unique identities. With this vision in mind, I established my own apparel company, infusing my art pieces into a diverse range of garments, including dresses, hoodies, shoes, and purses. Wearing art is like unlocking a superpower within oneself, connecting people to the magical realms of creativity. I strive to empower individuals to make a bold and unforgettable statement through the unique garments they wear.

Can you tell us about how your milestone collaboration with the Michael Kors fashion brand and how it came about?

The collaboration with Michael Kors began with a visionary brand store that aimed to create a special event for Mother’s Day. Through the help of my dear friend, Osirus Trejo, this collaboration became a reality. The store manager selected me to create a live painting show that had never been done before. During the event, I had the privilege of painting directly on Michael Kors bags, infusing them with my artistic vision and making each piece unique. Additionally, Michael Kors chose to showcase and sell my artwork at one of their store locations. The impact of this collaboration exceeded expectations as sales surpassed targets in an unprecedented timeframe. It became evident that art possesses a captivating power that leaves a lasting impression and adds a touch of magic to people’s lives. This collaboration with Michael Kors marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey, igniting a renewed passion and inspiring me to create my own fashion line that merges art and style.

What advice would you give to someone who is holding back from pursuing their artistic goals? How do you get over those reservations?

My advice to someone embarking on an artistic career is to seize the opportunity and pursue your wildest dreams without hesitation. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, so it is crucial to plant the seeds of your ambitions today. The efforts you put in now will bear fruit and yield results in the future. Take proactive steps to establish connections and network with as many people as possible, for it is through these connections that the magic happens. People are the conduits through which opportunities and growth unfold, and they can play a pivotal role in elevating you to the next level or connecting you with your desired destination. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals, for they are the ones who truly enrich your journey as an artist. Consider yourself fortunate if you find yourself in the company of such individuals, as their support can be invaluable.

What is the next big thing you’re working on and how can our readers follow you and your work?

I am thrilled to share my latest inspired venture with you: the creation of unique, one-of-a-kind dresses that seamlessly blend my artistry with the world of fashion. With each dress, I aim to create a wearable piece of art that empowers and celebrates the individual who wears it. In addition to my dress designs, I am currently immersed in the creation of large-scale sculptures that are taking shape and will be ready within the next two months.

To stay connected and be a part of my artistic journey, please follow me on social media at: https://www.instagram.com/lissamel_artist/. And you can find and explore my apparel collection at: https://lorenmarie.co. I am truly grateful for this opportunity to connect with Vents Magazine and answer your questions. Thank you!