We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alice Mizrachi a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alice, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?
Yes, I have been able to earn a full-time living from my creative work, and my journey has been quite enlightening. My foundation was built during my time at Parsons School of Design, where I deeply engaged with art history. I found inspiration in the lives of master artists throughout history, particularly noting that many of them had teaching roles. This realization led me to pursue a teaching artist position in New York City shortly after graduation.
By balancing my teaching career with my studio and public art practice, I discovered that both aspects could complement and support each other over time. This approach allowed me the freedom to explore and develop my artistic voice while maintaining financial stability. Teaching has become a vital part of my practice, enriching my work and allowing me to share my passion for art with others.
There were certainly challenges as I navigated the early stages of my career. A significant milestone for me was being recognized by the Mayor of New York City as an exemplary teaching artist for my contributions to the arts and culture of my community. More recently, I had the honor of teaching the business of art to students at The New School, my alma mater, which was incredibly fulfilling.
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve come to realize that success in the arts is often less about talent alone and more about the relationships you build. Networking plays a crucial role, and I believe that if I had prioritized this earlier on, it might have accelerated my career. I’m grateful for these lessons and am eager to share this insight with my students as I guide them in their own creative paths.
Alice, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I was born and raised in Queens, NY, to parents who immigrated from a war-torn Israel. As a first-generation daughter, I grew up balancing the modern world with the traditional values of my parents’ homeland. Our household was very DIY-oriented; anything that broke was either repaired or transformed into something new. My father was a skilled autobody technician, while my mother was a homemaker who expressed her creativity through knitting, crocheting, and preparing delicious meals. This environment instilled in me a strong sense of creativity from a young age, inspired by my parents and my two older siblings, who were deeply influenced by the diverse subculture of 1970s and 1980s New York City.
My journey into the arts began with a love for making things by hand. In high school, I discovered that art was a powerful form of self-expression and communication—especially when I struggled to articulate my identity and background. Art became a meditative practice for me, something that felt both healing and familiar.
When I decided to pursue art school, I knew I had to carve out an unconventional path, drawing on the problem-solving skills my family had taught me. After graduating, I was inspired to explore muralism after seeing friends in my neighborhood painting graffiti on walls and freight trains in a more artistic manner. This opened a new door for me, and I quickly fell in love with the sheer scale and public accessibility of mural work. It felt invigorating and rebellious to create art that was available to everyone, not just an elite few.
My career took off as I began participating in festivals that celebrated women muralists. I take immense pride in the fact that I have forged a path in a field where women, particularly from my background, are often not expected to succeed. By breaking these stereotypes, I feel I am honoring my matriarchs and living the dreams they were denied. My work not only inspires women around the globe but also serves as a testament to what is possible when you dare to defy expectations.
I want my clients and community to understand that their support not only sustains my dream but also empowers many young girls who now see that they can pursue similar paths. I stand on the shoulders of incredible women who have paved the way for me, and I strive to be a beacon of inspiration for the next generation, encouraging them to follow their passions and do what they love.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is the incredible freedom it affords me. I have the autonomy to choose the projects that resonate with me, as well as the flexibility to plan my own schedule. This control allows me to decide how I want to present myself in the world as an artist and whom I wish to nurture and collaborate with.
I truly value the concept of being “open source” in my work, sharing information and techniques with others. I continually learn so much from my community of fellow artists and intellectuals, both contemporary and historical. Their insights challenge me to grow and evolve in my craft.
Traveling all over the world with my art has been an enriching experience, and I take great pride in knowing that my parents are proud of the daughter they raised. Making a positive impact through the arts brings me immense joy, especially when I have the opportunity to work with youth and emerging artists who are passionate about art and culture.
Additionally, I believe it’s important to foster a sense of community and mentorship. By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I hope to inspire the next generation to embrace their creativity and pursue their artistic dreams. The ability to bridge different cultures and perspectives through art is something I cherish deeply, as it allows me to contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant artistic landscape.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I believe society plays a crucial role in supporting artists in various ways. One of the most direct methods is by purchasing art, commissioning works, and sharing artists’ creations on social media. Engaging with artists by commenting on their posts and providing insights can also significantly enrich their careers. I learned early on that success in this field is largely about the strength of your network, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have a supportive community and family surrounding me.
Establishing connections and introducing artists to the right people can be instrumental in helping them advance their careers. Society has countless opportunities to foster and support artists and creatives, ultimately contributing to the development of thriving artistic ecosystems. If you ever find yourself unsure of how to support an artist, don’t hesitate to ask, “How can I support your practice?” This simple question can open doors to meaningful collaborations and growth.
Moreover, in today’s content-driven market, every business can benefit from consulting with a creative mind. Whether you have an idea you want to bring to life or a project that needs a fresh perspective, reaching out to a local artist can lead to surprising and innovative outcomes. Artists thrive on collaboration, and together, we can create compelling work that resonates with a wider audience.
Ultimately, by actively engaging with and supporting artists, society not only enriches the cultural landscape but also empowers individuals to express themselves and share their unique stories. This exchange fosters creativity and connection, paving the way for future generations of artists.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alicemizrachi.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/am_nyc/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alice.mizrachi/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-mizrachi-767b106b/
Image Credits
Jazzmie Beaulieu for bio pic
Alice Mizrachi for all the rest