Check out our interview with Israeli artist Lissa Mel, who recently opened her own art gallery in Santa Monica the @messengersgallery.
Born in Uzbekistan and raised in Israel, Mel spent most of her life in Tel Aviv before leaving behind her secure business job to pursue art in Los Angeles. Her art, which explores matter at a molecular level using abstract depictions to capture performance while mirroring the vibrational waves of matter, has since been represented by the renowned Centaur Gallery in Las Vegas. Her art also explores Mel’s view of the human body as a vessel performing the dance of the natural realm and depicting the interaction between the feminine and masculine energies.
Follow Lissa @lissamel_artist
Hi Lissa, please tell us a little about you?
I am an Israeli artist who wholeheartedly believes in wielding a positive influence on this earth through my works of art. This vocation is not only a personal journey; it’s to be a source of inspiration for others each day. To encourage people to follow their passions and fulfill their gifts and to leave a legacy for emerging future-generation artists is the driving force that fills me with a profound sense of fulfillment.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Funny, curious, innovative.
Name one your strengths?
Relentless persistence in my mission
What is the key to your success?
Persistence!
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
I make the process enjoyable. People find me approachable and someone safe to share their works of art with, as most consider their art to be their babies or a part of their soul. I am straight to the point and truthful.
Now what about your new gallery “The Messengers Art Gallery”?
Artists are given the opportunity to flourish and showcase their work through my gallery, an opportunity they may not find elsewhere. The other side of that is that it’s hard to say “no” to artists who want to showcase their work at the gallery. But we selectively choose based on how their work represents the mission statement.
The art business is very competitive. What do you do to stay on top of the game and to promote your gallery in Santa Monica?
Part of it is being selective. To not only prioritize innovative and groundbreaking art, but to also create a memorable experience for gallery visitors. We strive to touch the souls of our audience and connect with them on a deeper level.
Where can we see more of your art?
I just exhibited at the Superfine Art Fair. My art is also in the Centaur Art Gallery in Las Vegas. There will be a group show this month at The Messengers Gallery. I will also be showing my work during Art Basel this year from December 5th to the 10th at the Context Art Miami. Come and visit me!
How often do you create new art?
I create every week, often working on multiple projects at the same time.
Do you have any artists that inspired you?
I am inspired by Olafur Eliasson and Gustav Klimt.
Any advice to entrepreneurs out there?
Always be ready to change quickly.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
“The Checklist Manifesto” by Atul Gawande.
What is your own definition of happiness?
To love yourself.
What is next for Lissa Mel in the last months of 2023 and for 2024?
I’ll be finishing my first book!
Something people don’t know about you?
I like driving formula one cars.
Who was your role model as a child?
My mother.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Leonardo da Vinci, because he was so ahead of his time. He was a genius.
What is your favorite healthy food?
It’s Muesli with fruit.
And your favorite cheat food?
Pasta.
In five years from now, where do you see yourself and your career?
I see my art in Tate Modern in New York. And I’d love to be a well-known fashion designer with my own shoe line.
What do you like to watch on TV?
I don’t watch TV!
3 things you can’t leave home without?
My little notebook, my glasses, and lip balm.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
To be in nature and practice meditation, and then paint the rest of the day.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think it’s a great tool to express yourself and for branding.
Where can we follow you?
@lissamel_artist and @messengersgallery
Quote: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge will take you from A to B but imagination will take you everywhere.”
Actor/Actress: Christian Bale.
Drink: Orange Juice.
City: Paris.
Movie: The Matrix.
Song: Surfaces – Sunday Best.
