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

Alright, Isabella thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?

Yes, there have definitely been times when both my work and I have been misunderstood or mischaracterized, particularly as a Latina woman who grew up in Miami and is openly sensual in my artistic expression. One notable example is how my art and personal social media presence are sometimes viewed as conflicting or inconsistent, especially when I share pictures of myself in a bikini on my art page. I’ve often been labeled as “unprofessional” or “not serious” because of these posts, which I find frustrating, especially when the work I create is deeply thoughtful, conceptually driven, and very often derived from pain.

This type of misinterpretation is rooted in a broader societal tendency to restrict women—especially women of color—to certain narrow, often reductive roles. As a Latina woman, I’m aware that my identity, both personal and cultural, comes with its own set of expectations. In Miami, sensuality and boldness are part of the fabric of our culture, but when that expression enters the realm of art, some people seem to lose sight of its complexity.

For me, sharing my body in a playful or sensual way isn’t about reducing myself to a stereotype, it’s about reclaiming my autonomy and celebrating the full spectrum of who I am. I’ve often felt that there’s an inherent tension in how women artists, especially women of color, are expected to present themselves. There’s this expectation that we must be either “serious” artists or “sexualized” figures, as though those two identities can never coexist. But I reject that binary. I believe it’s deeply anti-feminist to view women artists in such a limited way, as if they are only one-dimensional or must conform to someone else’s idea of what is “appropriate” or “professional.” My work reflects the complexities of being a woman—sensual, intellectual, and multifaceted—and I want to be free to express those parts of myself without being pigeonholed.

Over time, I’ve come to understand that mischaracterizations like these are often more about other people’s discomfort with the freedom I embody than about any lack of depth in my work. I also realized that part of my role as an artist is to challenge these narrow views, even when it means being misunderstood. The pushback has made me more resolute in advocating for a broader, more inclusive view of what it means to be a woman artist, one that embraces both power and vulnerability, intellect and sensuality.

In terms of learning, this experience has reinforced my belief in the importance of authenticity. I’ve learned to trust that staying true to myself, even in the face of criticism, is essential to my artistic voice. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most important work isn’t just the art itself, but the way we live and present ourselves as artists. We’re complex beings, and our art should reflect that.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Isabella, a Colombian-Lebanese artist based in New York and Miami and currently attending Pratt Institute. Growing up in the vibrant cultures of Barranquilla, Miami, and New York has deeply shaped my identity and creative voice. My work exists at the intersection of identity, sexuality, and psychology, and I strive to create art that challenges societal norms while trying to stay as deeply personal and authentic as I can.

My journey into art began with a fascination for self-expression and storytelling. Being neurodivergent with ADHD (and possibly on the autism spectrum) has influenced my creative process, helping me see the world through a different lens. I’m drawn to textures, transparency, and shine, which is why glitter and slime are recurring elements in my work. These materials not only reflect my aesthetic preferences but also serve as metaphors for subversion, transformation, and rebellion.

I create sculptures, paintings, and conceptual pieces that address themes like sexuality, identity, and feminism. One of my ongoing projects explores bimbo culture as a feminist and anti-capitalist movement. Through works like a barbed-wire dome drenched in glitter slime, I interrogate the patriarchy and celebrate LGBTQIA+ inclusivity. My art reflects my belief in the power of subversion and the beauty of rebellion.

In addition to my artistic practice, I consult on analyzing proportions and likeness for specific projects. This allows me to merge my analytical skills with my creative vision, offering clients a precise yet imaginative approach to character development and visual storytelling.

What sets me apart is my commitment to creating from a place of truth, vulnerability, and authenticity. I see my work as an extension of my identity. I’m most proud of the ways my art resonates with others, sparking conversations about power dynamics, representation, and individuality. I’m proud that my work has helped raise money for organizations in Colombia and Gaza, furthering efforts to provide aid and uplift marginalized communities. Knowing that my creativity can make a tangible impact motivates me to keep pushing boundaries.

For potential clients or followers, I want you to know that my work isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about challenging norms and offering new perspectives. Whether you’re drawn to the shiny allure of glitter or the questions my art raises, I hope my work inspires you to see the world differently.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I built my TikTok audience all by myself! I had a few videos go viral and built my following from there. One video gathered over 2 million views and was very controversial. I was even sent a few death threats :0 ! My advice would be to be very patient and authentic. Your people will find you!

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

There are many things we can do to support artists! To best support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem, we must prioritize financial stability through grants, universal basic income, and accessible funding opportunities. Affordable studio spaces, inclusive art education, and mental health resources are essential, alongside amplifying diverse voices and addressing gatekeeping in the arts. Public art initiatives, international collaborations, and stronger copyright protections can expand opportunities, while fostering community engagement and local patronage helps artists connect with audiences. By valuing creativity as a vital part of cultural and social progress, we can ensure artists not only survive but thrive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mebarakart.com
• Instagram: isabellamebarak
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabellamebarak/
• Other: TikTok: @rizzzabella

Image Credits

@tokyo_filmzz
@juancriobo
@pieish