We were lucky to catch up with Leyla Ghobadi recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Leyla, thanks for joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

The biggest risk I’ve taken is breaking the mold set forth by society of the typical 9 to 5 desk job. It was particularly difficult given my parents are from an Iranian background, and although they are liberal at heart, they felt I should be using my business degree. In 2016, I was going through big personal changes and needed a clean break and set out for Dubai all the way from Montreal, CA. I was offered a DJ residency at the Sheraton which was wonderful as it allowed me to explore my love for mixing music, creating an atmosphere. Unfortunately, that was short lived and the hotel shut down after a few weeks. I was in a strange and magnificent city still having to figure my internal turmoil. Art became my therapy. I was able to work through anything by painting day in and day out. I was fortunate to have friends lend their balconies which became my first studio in essence. My first big break came with Dubai’s Comic Con. I was able to get my name and more importantly my art out there. The response was humbling and overwhelming. Many of my prints sold out and I had special requests and commissions to keep me centered and very busy. Following Dubai, Miami seemed like a perfect second stepping stone to combine my love of music and art. I churned out as many pieces up to my standards. My goal was to get a collection showcased for the Art Basel week in Miami. Art Basel is an excellent opportunity and a celebrated week in Miami for artists all around the world. I feel these risks have paid off and were most certainly a huge leap of faith.

Leyla, 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?

I am Canadian of Persian background descent, working from my studio in Montreal and delivering contemporary with a pop-art twist. I bring Japanese manga ideas to life with either a varnish or resin finish. Lately, I have been bringing to life portraits of such giants the likes of Picasso, Amy Winehouse, Dali, Mohamed Ali….My pieces are unique, large, colorful canvases. If you look closely they are adorned with personal notes. My private order-only approach will enable you to pick your superhero or any life icon and bring it to life in your living space.

You have to see my art to understand it and fully appreciate the level of fine detailing.

Lately, I have been seeing more and more orders from parents who wish to offer their first art piece to their newborns. I feel my art could influence the perception of people’s mind and interest in fantasy.
Many of my collectors started developing an interest in the “HOW IT’S DONE”, and I responded by offering private art therapy lessons. I realized that art therapy was a growing demand for mental health for the past year. Besides being an artist, I also an international DJ with a passion for creating music. Making art and playing music is the perfect duo for me. I have a few projects in the pipeline notably playing with ceramic figurines and silhouettes, where paint is added to create a sculpture for an edgy finish. I feel that my intention in life is to set positive vibes in the community and help people incorporate art into their life. I dedicate my time to doing what I love; making art for the ones who need it and the ones who love it.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

I mostly get my new clients through social media such as instagram & tik tok. Thanks to the specific hashtags i get a reach of my target market. Another great way i have acquired new clients is by participating at Art shows with galleries & art conventions such as Comic con. I have gotten myself a booth in the artist alleys & showcased my work in different countries reaching a broader market .

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I like to donate every year pieces to charity & auctions around the world. I feel it is very important to give back in this business. I have helped big organizations such as SCHOLAS, Kids foundation, Animal shelters, Santa Cabrini Hospital, War fund reliefs and much more. I usually participate around 3 to 4 different foundations that I believe in to make a positive difference in the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.leylaisonfire.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leylaisonfire/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leylaisonfire