We were lucky to catch up with Hala Kusiak recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hala, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, one thing many business owners consider is donating a percentage of sales or profits to an organization or cause. We’d love to hear your thoughts and the story behind how and why you chose the cause or organization you donate to.

I actively support charitable causes through my art and resources. A portion of my proceeds goes to One Heart for Women and Children Charity and Opera Orlando. Additionally, I’ve donated artwork to organizations like the Citrus Club and CityArts Gallery.

As an artist, I believe my role extends beyond creation to inspiration and community engagement. I strive to ignite passion and creativity in those I encounter, sharing my time and insights where they align with others’ needs. This commitment to giving back is integral to my artistic philosophy, fostering a cycle of inspiration and support within the community.

Hala, 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?

Hala Kusiak, a pioneering artist born in Baghdad, embarked on an artistic journey defined by both restriction and liberation. Growing up in an environment where her artistic expression was heavily censored, Hala was forbidden from exploring themes of sensuality, sexuality, or creating any form of nude art. These constraints stifled her true artistic identity, preventing her from fully realizing her creative potential.

Seeking the freedom to express herself authentically, Hala made a life-altering decision to move to the United States. This transition marked a significant turning point in her career and personal life. In America, Hala discovered an environment that not only embraced but also celebrated her artistic exploration. She began to test new methods of presenting her art, delving into previously forbidden themes with enthusiasm and a newfound sense of liberation.

Hala’s art in America is a vivid reflection of her journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. Her work powerfully conveys the theme of female freedom in creation, resonating with audiences who have faced similar struggles. Beyond her art, Hala also embraced personal freedom in her everyday life, from the way she dressed to how she expressed her thoughts and beliefs.

Central to Hala’s philosophy is the idea of being kind to oneself and the importance of authenticity. She believes in living life to its fullest, embracing one’s true identity, and expressing it without fear or reservation. Hala’s story is not just about artistic freedom; it’s a testament to the universal quest for self-expression and the transformative power of art in realizing one’s true self.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Growing up in Iraq, I was immersed in a culture that deeply valued faith, honesty, and truth within families and communities. This foundation shaped my worldview and expectations of human interactions. However, my perspective underwent a significant transformation when I moved to different parts of the world.

In my new environment, I encountered a stark reality: not everyone presented themselves authentically. This realization challenged my ingrained beliefs and forced me to recalibrate my understanding of human nature. I had to unlearn my automatic trust in others and recognize that some individuals operate with hidden agendas or prioritize self-interest above all else.

This journey of disillusionment was undoubtedly painful, but it has been an essential part of my personal growth. While I’ve gained a more nuanced understanding of human behavior, I find myself in a process of carefully rebuilding trust in others. This experience has taught me to balance my cultural values with a more discerning approach to relationships, allowing me to navigate the complexities of human interactions with greater wisdom and resilience.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

From an early age, I felt a deep connection to Western culture, with North America holding a particular allure. This affinity wasn’t just a passing fancy; it became the driving force behind a life-changing decision I made two decades ago.
With unwavering determination, I embarked on the challenging journey of immigrating to Canada. The process was arduous and time-consuming, spanning over four years. During this period, I meticulously gathered the required paperwork, compiled necessary documentation, and worked tirelessly to accumulate the points needed to qualify for an immigration interview.

Throughout this lengthy and often frustrating process, I never lost sight of my goal. My faith in the eventual success of my endeavor remained unshakeable. I knew, with absolute certainty, that I would one day realize my dream of living in the West.
Now, having achieved that dream, I find myself in an environment where I can fully express my artistic vision. Here, I have the freedom to paint without restrictions or fear of judgment. This newfound liberty has not only transformed my personal life but has also profoundly impacted my art, allowing me to explore and create with unprecedented freedom.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.halakusiakart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hala.kusiak/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HalaKusiak
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hala-kusiak-a9217924a/