Lissa Mel is a multi-talented Israeli artist and entrepreneur with a wide array of skills and passions. Her work has been featured at Miami’s prestigious Art Basel, and she’s also launched her own clothing line, Loren Marie, blending her love for painting and fashion. Mel was born in Uzbekistan and raised in Israel. Initially, she pursued science in high school but later focused on painting, sculpture, and cinema. Her art explores matter at a molecular level, as well as the interaction between feminine and masculine energies. Despite challenges, she left her business career to become a full-time artist in Los Angeles, where she continued to evolve her art after establishing her own gallery, ‘The Messengers Art Gallery’, in Santa Monica.
Lissa’s artwork is set to be on display at “The Other Art Fair” in Dallas, Texas, from May 9th to the 12th. This upcoming showcase promises to be a fantastic opportunity for art enthusiasts and admirers of Lissa’s work to experience her talent and creativity in a new setting.
During a recent conversation with Lissa, we delved into various aspects of her artistic journey. We discussed her past exhibit at the renowned Artexpo NYC, as well as the inspiration behind her brand, Loren Marie. Lissa also shared insights into her transition from a career in high-end fashion to pursuing her passion for art.
Could you elaborate on the creative spark behind the inception of Loren Marie as a brand and project?
Loren Marie, as a brand, revolves around the concept of elevating everyday clothing with art. By integrating artistic elements into daily wear, the brand aims to make each piece uniquely compelling and distinct, transforming ordinary outfits into extraordinary expressions of personal style.
How do you view or conceptualize fashion as an art form? What sets it apart?
I view fashion as a dynamic art form that reflects personal and cultural identities. What we wear not only sets the tone for our individual expression but also serves as a mark of who we are. This personalization and the ability to communicate through clothing are what truly set fashion apart as an art form.
As an artist, what concepts are you often drawn to when it comes to creating? What do you like to explore?
I’m particularly drawn to exploring new materials and their interactions. My creative process is fueled by the curiosity to see how different textures, forms, and colors can coalesce to form something unexpected and impactful. This exploration of materiality not only challenges my artistic practices, but also continuously evolves my aesthetic and conceptual horizons.
Your art was exhibited at the Artexpo New York. What inspired this exhibition, and what themes or concepts are represented in your artwork?
The inspiration centers on the themes of feminine beauty and energy. This concept reflects a celebration of the dynamic aspects of femininity, exploring it through various forms and expressions. Visitors enjoyed works that highlight the elegance, strength, and complexity of feminine energy portrayed through innovative use of materials and creative techniques.
Could you also discuss any techniques or mediums that you have incorporated into your pieces for this expo?
For this exhibition, I’ve embraced a mixed-media approach to better convey the themes of feminine energy. One of the standout pieces combines oil paint, acrylics, paper, ink, and spray paint on canvas. This mixture of mediums allows for a rich, textured exploration of my themes, offering depth and complexity that invite viewers to engage more deeply with each piece.
What were some of the challenges you encountered while transitioning from a career in high-end fashion to embarking on an artistic journey in the vibrant city of Los Angeles back in 2019?
One of the primary challenges I faced was my unfamiliarity with the local art scene. Coming to a different country, it was difficult to find my footing within the new cultural landscape. Blending into this environment posed significant challenges as I navigated it and made connections within the art community here.
Could you shed light on the creative process behind the creation of your extensive portfolio of artwork, and how you sustain inspiration to continually produce new pieces?
My creative process is deeply intertwined with my meditative practices. It’s during these moments of stillness that I often receive the ideas that form the foundation of my artwork. I make it a point to jot these insights down immediately. My inspiration is also renewed by engaging with a broad spectrum of cultural experiences, including other artists’ works, literature, music, shows, and concerts. I find that inspiration is all around us, and I strive to remain open to the multitude of influences that fuel my artistic expression.
What words of wisdom would you offer to aspiring artists and designers seeking to harmonize diverse creative passions into a thriving career akin to yours?
I’d recommend always writing down your ideas and revisiting them later. Embrace the process of trial and error—don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials. Think of yourself as a magician exploring new tricks. Venture into uncharted territories of creativity—touch things that have never been touched before or discovered. It’s in these explorations that you’ll find your own magic naturally unfolding.
What’s on your horizon right now? Are you working towards any other exciting projects we should know about?
Currently, I am immersed in creating a large-scale art piece that incorporates both sculptures and mixed-media elements. I’m also preparing for an upcoming showcase at “The Other Art Fair” in Dallas, Texas. This event is a significant opportunity for me to present my latest works and connect with the art community there.
