We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Arleen Held. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Arleen below.

Hi Arleen, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

In the late 90’s, early 2000’s I was given the opportunity to create a piece of artwork for the NYU Pediatric Dental Clinic. Alongside my donated artwork – I was instrumental in securing works from other artists and peers for their works to be on display in the clinic. It was truly a pivotal moment of my artistic path and has paved the way for both my growth as an individual and an artist.

Arleen, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Little did I know that when my oldest son, Zachary, was 2 years old, I’d uncover a passion that would bring so much joy and happiness to my life. One day while drawing pictures with Zachary, a friend of mine spotted some talent and urged me to start developing it further.

In the home studio of an extremely talented artist where I was introduced to a community of women who shared my passion. Each artist had different backgrounds, views and styles, but all possessed extreme talent.

Painting became my therapy and a day at the studio painting and bonding with these other artists not only helped me become a better mother and partner but gave me the patience and perspective I needed to be a better person.

As with many artists, I draw my inspiration from my time with family, through the trips and journeys we have taken around the world together. My paintings are derived from photos of landscapes, food, and intricacies of objects that catch my eye.

Today I continue to pursue my passion with a cooperative of women under the guidance of a fabulous leader. The inspiration and positive critique in this new environment has brought a renaissance to my artistic focus.

My family and friends continue to motivate me to go further and it has been their ongoing encouragement that has given me the confidence to build this online gallery. I hope you enjoy my work, purchase a print, or commission a custom painting created just for you!

We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

As an artist and a contributing member of the PIXEL Project, I feel there is the potential for NFTs to revolutionize the art world – if done tastefully and with focus on art itself. The existing noise around NFTs at the moment is not based on talent and contribution to the art world – but financially motivated.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The only goal I have is to continue my learning through keeping on my existing path of exploration & artistic development.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ajheldart.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/arlesj18