We were lucky to catch up with Ilana T. and have shared our conversation below.

Ilana, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I consider the process of creating to be meaningful on both an individual and a collective level. I make art with purpose, emotion, and meaning that is either personal to myself or others. I can safely say that I’ve never produced a piece I’m proud of that doesn’t have a story behind it. These stories often remain hidden in the work, which I believe brings great value and depth to it. For example, some of my works contain tiny and almost illegible writing within them, alluding to concepts or ideas that the piece is about. Other times, the intentions behind the piece are evident, intending to bring awareness or focus to something. For example, I once created an assemblage piece that alluded to issues with America’s justice system. That piece included items that resembled handcuffs, jail cells, etc. Art is powerful and can be an effective tool to bring about necessary changes to the world.

Ilana, 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?

Art has helped me heal in ways that I didn’t think were possible. I find great relief in art and feel I am my best self when I’m in a creative space. I choose to have art and creativity as a central focus in my life, and selling my work enables me to connect with other people through art.

I sell an array of products, but the main ones include paintings, jewelry, and resin works. Commission paintings are my absolute favorite. I love working together with my clients to create works of art that we discuss and design together. It’s an honor to be able to provide them with something meaningful that they initiated.

What I think sets me apart from others in this industry is that my process of creating is equally as important to me as the result. I pour my heart and soul into paintings, and I strongly believe that the energy and emotion I put into a work radiates from the finished piece. My hope is that when someone else views my work, they will find their own story in it too. This is also why the physical paintings I sell are always originals.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

I believe that people who consider themselves to be non-creatives will likely struggle to understand the depth and meaning behind my art. Perhaps they will look at my work and think it’s interesting, but not feel as connected to it as creatives would be. Creatives have a unique way of thinking and often lead with their hearts before their minds. The world needs a balance of both. Some people thrive in careers filled with facts and numbers and they greatly contribute to society that way.

If a non-creative were to challenge me on my purpose or passion for pursuing an artistic career, I’d likely respond by letting them know that art is what keeps me sane. I also know that everyone has a heart, and if put to the test, they would find personal meaning in art, despite their perceived lack of creativity. While it may be unfamiliar and possibly uncomfortable, I know they can relate to art on some level.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Support small businesses! If you’re ever looking to buy art or décor for your home or office, or if you’re buying a gift for someone, take that opportunity to support small businesses, if you can. There are so many amazing artists out there who are doing amazing things and are trying to survive financially by doing what they love. It’s not easy, but your support can have a great impact on this industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: artandsoulbyilana.com
• Instagram: artandsoul.byilana
• Other: TikTok: artandsoul.byilana

Image Credits
For images 1, 5, and 6: Esti Weiskopf