In the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, where culture intertwines with every heartbeat, artist Lissa Mel found her muse. Now, nestled in the creative hub of Los Angeles, her art reflects the vibrant tapestry of experiences from her homeland, pulsating with the rhythms of Israeli culture. In an exclusive interview, Lissa Mel invites us into her world, where art transcends boundaries and creativity knows no limits.
Interview: Angel Neal
Photo Credits: Reinhardt Kenneth
Lissa credits her mother for igniting her passion for art, recounting tender moments spent sketching together. Despite her father's initial reservations, her mother's unwavering belief in her talent paved the way for her artistic journey. "I feel extremely lucky to have had her," Lissa reflects, acknowledging the pivotal role her mother played in shaping her path. With titles ranging from artist to entrepreneur, gallerist, and fashion designer, Lissa wears many hats, each feeding her creative spirit in unique ways. While she finds herself most creatively fueled as an artist and fashion designer, she emphasizes the role of creativity in all aspects of her life, aiding her endeavors as an entrepreneur and gallerist.
For Lissa, creating art is not just a passion but a soulful ritual. She chants mantras as she paints, infusing each piece with elevated frequencies of creativity. Drawing inspiration from her daily yoga practices, she seamlessly integrates spirituality into her art, transcending conventional boundaries.
"I often incorporate elements from Israeli culture into my creations, such as the hamsa hands, which are significant symbols of protection and peace in Israeli culture. These influences manifest in many aspects of my art, reflecting the rich tapestry of experiences and memories from Tel Aviv. This cultural heritage forms a continuous thread in my work, connecting my past to my present artistic expressions."
Lissa's commitment to community extends to initiatives like partnering with Better Angels to develop art projects benefiting the homeless in Santa Monica. Through educational and mentorship programs, she hopes to inspire and heal, harnessing the transformative power of art. Reflecting on the power of female art, Lissa highlights its ability to convey confidence, enlightenment, and beauty through a distinctly feminine lens. Celebrating unique perspectives and experiences, female art empowers and inspires, enriching the artistic landscape.
Artistic Expression Beyond Canvas:
Lissa's foray into fashion with the Loren Marie hoodie collection epitomizes her desire to blend comfort with creativity. Each piece in the collection serves as a canvas for personal expression, reflecting a distinctive artistic vision that transcends the ordinary.
“I launched the Loren Marie hoodie collection with the desire to blend everyday comfort with unique creative expression. Inspired by the art prints I deeply admire, I aimed to create something that stands out from the ordinary. Each piece in the collection reflects a distinctive artistic vision making everyday apparel both comfortable and a canvas for personal expression and style.”
For Lissa, self-love is both a practice and a foundation for personal growth. Grounded in the present moment, it fosters acceptance and appreciation of oneself, nurturing a healthy, loving relationship with one's soul. Looking ahead, Lissa is focused on expanding her creative pursuits, from launching her fashion line to delving into sculpture. With plans to grow her presence in the art scene and launch her sneaker line, she remains steadfast in her commitment to artistic evolution.
To aspiring artists and gallery owners, Lissa offers sage advice: immerse yourself in the art community, embrace authenticity, and follow your passion relentlessly. By leveraging strengths and forging meaningful connections, success becomes an inevitable outcome of heartfelt dedication.
In the luminous world of Lissa Mel, art is not just a vocation but a way of life—a celebration of creativity, community, and self-discovery. As she continues to weave her artistic tapestry, she invites us to join her on a journey where every brushstroke tells a story, and every creation resonates with the soul.organization," she says.
Keep up to date with Mel's whirlwind of art projects and journey here:
Stay connected: