We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ilana Greenberg a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Ilana, appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
In 2018, Ilana Greenberg took a bold risk by opening her own gallery in the Columbia Waterfront District of Brooklyn. Ilana Greenberg Gallery is nestled in the back of her family-run vintage store, Union Max. The space is dedicated to showcasing the artist’s compelling black-and-white artwork and supporting and promoting local artists. Opening a gallery requires a considerable time investment, as it involves the ongoing curation of exhibitions, daily operational management, and cultivating relationships with artists, curators, and collectors. However, one of the greatest risks Greenberg faced was the vulnerability inherent in presenting her work to the public in such a high-profile space. Galleries are places where an artist’s vision is subject to scrutiny, and as both the gallery owner and artist, Greenberg had to navigate the challenge of balancing the promotion of her art with that of others. Despite the potential for criticism, her commitment to highlighting local talent and providing a platform for their work allowed the gallery to establish a distinctive identity, offering an intimate, curated experience that combined personal expression with community-driven creativity. To further engage with the local community, Greenberg hosts events and opening receptions, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment that encourages connection and collaboration. These gatherings not only attract visitors but also cultivate a sense of camaraderie among artists, collectors, and the public. Ultimately, Greenberg’s dedication and vision transformed the gallery into a thriving cultural hub for emerging artists in the Brooklyn art scene.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Ilana Greenberg is a painter, illustrator, and graphic designer based in her beloved hometown of Brooklyn. Painting is a second career for Ilana as she spent much of her life as a graphic designer before taking a painting class on a whim. She immediately fell in love with the medium and began painting every day. She is known for her black-and-white abstract acrylic works, which are influenced by mid-century modern masters and the fast-paced energy of Brooklyn. Ilana embraces experimentation, knowing that sometimes what feels like a mistake can turn into a breakthrough. Authenticity is central to her creative process; staying true to her unique voice and vision is what makes her work stand out.
Ilana owns and operates the Ilana Greenberg Gallery in the back of her family’s antique store, Union Max, where she showcases her work alongside the work of local artists. Her paintings and drawings are sold at her gallery, as well as on platforms like Chairish and 1st Dibs. Her art is also licensed by well-known brands such as One Kings Lane, Minted, West Elm, Anthropologie, Ethan Allen and Artfully Walls.
Ilana’s love of interior design and all things vintage influences the way she frames her work, often pairing her modern paintings with vintage frames to create a unique, timeless aesthetic. Growing up, her mother regularly took Ilana and her sister to local tag sales, where Ilana developed a natural affinity for the charm of forgotten treasures. Hunting for the perfect frames at thrift shops, flea markets, and estate sales allows her to appreciate the craftsmanship and stories behind each piece. The juxtaposition of vintage frames with her modern work not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also deepened her connection with her audience. The vintage frames add a unique, personalized touch that resonates with her artistic vision, enriches her work, and connects her with a growing community of collectors and admirers.
Ilana’s dedication to both her craft and her community is what drives her success, making her not only an accomplished artist but also an advocate for the importance of artistic expression. Her work continues to evolve, inspiring others with its authenticity, emotional depth, and connection to the world around her.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
Social media offers immense potential to support artists, but this support must go beyond passive engagement. To truly help artists thrive, followers and communities can take more active steps, such as sharing an artist’s work with personal recommendations. Reposting artwork, tagging friends, or recommending artists can significantly expand their reach and introduce their work to new audiences, potentially leading to sales or collaborations. Purchasing artwork directly from social media or visiting an artist’s website provides immediate financial support. Even small gestures, like promoting upcoming shows or limited editions, can help bring attention and drive sales.
Moreover, creating a culture of support means engaging in meaningful conversations about an artist’s process, offering thoughtful comments, and encouraging others to explore their work. Social media can foster a community of creativity and mutual respect by asking questions, sharing insights, or providing words of encouragement. Implementing support for artists means recognizing that these platforms are not just about visibility, but about building connections and offering genuine investment in their growth. By advocating for artists and collaborating with them, social media becomes a powerful tool for empowering creatives to sustain and expand their practice.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For Ilana Greenberg, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to get lost in her work. She views her art as a journal of her life — a personal expression of her thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The act of creating is deeply therapeutic for Ilana, offering her a way to process and release emotions that might otherwise be difficult to express. When she’s in the zone, fully immersed in the creative process, it feels like a form of meditation — an escape where she can disconnect from the outside world and channel her inner thoughts and feelings into something tangible. Art becomes a safe space where she can express her vulnerabilities and frustrations while also celebrating moments of joy. Beyond personal fulfillment, she finds immense joy in sharing her art and seeing how others respond. Knowing that her work can spark a conversation or evoke a feeling makes the entire creative journey even more meaningful, enriching both her art and her sense of purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ilanagreenberggallery.com
- Instagram: @ilanagreenbergart and @ilanagreenberggallery
- Facebook: Ilana Greenberg Art/Ilana Greenberg Gallery
- Linkedin: Ilana Greenberg
