We were lucky to catch up with Bella Manoim recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Bella thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

One of the things my parents did right was always being honest with me. They never tried to sugarcoat reality or tell me I could do anything without considering the practical side of things. When I was in college studying computer science, I had many moments where I wanted to drop out or change my major. At one point, I even dreamed of living on a farm and making soap. However, my parents kept me grounded- they were very realistic with me about the financial and career implications of my choices. They didn’t discourage my passions, but they helped me see the bigger picture. I’m grateful to my parents for guiding me to make choices that gave me both security and the freedom to create on my own terms. Their honesty shaped how I approach both my career and my art- I do what I love, but in a way that allows me to thrive. I have great admiration for those who dedicate themselves to art full-time, but I knew my own path had to be different.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

When I was little, I was gifted a beautiful set of paints for my birthday. I knew they were expensive, and for a long time I was afraid to use them. I didn’t feel like I was a good enough artist to justify using the “good paints.” That feeling of not being good enough stayed with me for much of my childhood. Unless I knew with certainty that I would be successful, I didn’t want to take risks. I didn’t want to waste the good paints on something that wouldn’t turn out well. Through years of self-work and growth, I built confidence and learned to let go of the fears that held me back. I now paint abstract art as a way to escape and process my emotions.

My work is deeply personal, often inspired by my own feelings, music I enjoy, and characters from shows that resonate with me. I began painting prolifically during one of the hardest times in my life- instead of letting grief consume me, I channeled it into bright colors, bold lines, and abstract shapes against the blackest black backgrounds. Sometimes I start a large piece feeling one way, but as I continue, my emotions shift and I can see the painting transforming with me. My style is freehand; I don’t rigidly plan my pieces but instead draw out shapes on the spot and let the work take form organically. One of my favorite little traditions is hiding an abstract cat in my paintings- something my kids love searching for and get excited about when they find it.

While art is my passion, I also work in IT, I’m a mother of two, and I’m just trying to keep it all together while doing my best to be a good human in this world. Creating is something I do for myself, but when I have the opportunity to share my work, I take it. A particularly meaningful moment came in 2024 when my friend, artist Shana Rubin, invited me to showcase my work alongside hers at the Heidi Gallery at JSDD for the Community Connections Art Exhibit, which featured more than 50 local and Israeli artists. Seeing people admire my piece and hearing their reactions was an incredibly powerful and affirming experience. I have also created commissioned pieces for The FX Circuit and donated artwork for silent auctions and benefits.

My work is colorful and vibrant. I draw strength from my Jewish heritage and my experience as an immigrant- both of which have instilled in me the resilience to keep moving forward, no matter what life brings. For me, art isn’t about perfection- it’s about expression. My mission is simple: to create for the sake of creation. And if my work resonates with someone, if it makes them feel something, then that’s all the better.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Non-creatives might not realize how vulnerable it is to share your work. Every piece I create carries a part of me, and putting it out into the world means exposing myself to interpretation, connection, and critique. That vulnerability is also what makes it so meaningful. When someone sees my work and feels something, it’s incredibly special. For years, I had numerous pieces displayed at OHR Home Office Solutions before one admirer reached out to buy my work. When he did, he bought seven pieces at once. My art won’t speak to everyone, but when it does- it’s very rewarding.

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

NFTs are an interesting development in the art world, providing artists with new opportunities to monetize their work. While I respect those who have successfully entered this space, I feel a deeper connection to physical art and the presence it carries. Viewing a painting in a book versus experiencing it in a gallery is a world apart- much like hearing music through phone speakers versus feeling it live at a concert. For me, there’s no substitute for the tangible. I strive to keep an open mind as the world evolves, but at this time, NFTs aren’t for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bella.simha.us/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ingenue32/