We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Annesta Le a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Annesta, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
When I first started my art practice, I was consumed by self-doubt and insecurity about my work. I heard about a big open studio event where artists open up their studios to the public. I was terrified of this, but the building owner encouraged me to participate. I was filled with anxiety, but I decided to take the risk of being vulnerable.
On the day of open studios, I showcased my art for the first time. To my surprise, the response was overwhelmingly positive. This risk changed the course of my life. It boosted my confidence and led to participation in group shows, solo exhibitions, and international showcases. That day, my art came to life in ways I never expected.
Taking that risk, despite my insecurities, transformed me as an artist. It taught me that creativity thrives in vulnerability and that the world is often more receptive than we think. This experience has defined my artistic journey and continues to drive my growth and adventures.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am a multidisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn, New York and my journey into the art world was a bit unconventional. I originally started in computer science, but life had other plans. A deep dive into Jungian analysis and a transformative trip to the Brazilian rainforest opened new doors for me.
As a Vietnamese-American, my art is a way to explore my place in the world and express the inner landscapes of my mind. My work is a mix of neon glass sculpture, painting, and drawing, where I explore the human form and delve into the realms of emotion, psychology, and a touch of the mystical.
In my paintings and drawings, you’ll find vibrant, emotionally charged strokes. They reflect a dance of feelings, spirituality, and the deeper parts of the psyche. Meanwhile, my neon glass pieces are like visual poetry—abstract, hand-bent shapes and lines that feel like mysterious symbols.
I’ve recently concluded my solo exhibition, “Eternal Current,” at Yi Gallery in New York, and I’m excited to show my work at Untitled Art Fair in Miami Beach this year. I’m also incredibly grateful to have received support from the Peter S. Reed Foundation.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the opportunity for complete self-expression. It’s about delving deep into who you are and exploring your inner world, and then having the privilege to translate those discoveries externally into diverse forms of art. For me, the creative journey involves continuous learning, exploring various disciplines, crafts, and techniques. This keeps the work engaging and exciting! It’s an avenue to ask thought-provoking questions, both about yourself and the world around you. Ultimately, being an artist is a unique privilege that allows you to express your soul and share your perspective with others, and I find that extremely rewarding.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
I think it’s crucial for individuals and institutions to embrace a spirit of openness and collaboration. Inclusivity is key. We need to create more opportunities and openness for individuals who may not have had the chance to attend art school but are deeply passionate about establishing a serious art practice. While progress is being made, there is still room for improvement in ensuring that the creative field becomes more accessible to all aspiring artists. By breaking down barriers and encouraging collaboration, we can create a more vibrant and supportive environment for artists and foster a rich creative landscape.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.annesta.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annesta_le/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annestalestudio/
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annesta_le
Image Credits
Meiying Thai, Vanessa Gonzalez-Bunster, Eli Montes