We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Meital Shushan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Meital below.
Meital, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
My journey as an artist-entrepreneur has been a constant evolution, a dance between creativity and commerce. Diving into daily artistic experiments with diverse media, I am always learning and improving my craft and my lines. I soon realized the necessity of embracing the business side. Overcoming societal hesitations, particularly for women in the art world, was a significant hurdle. To expedite my learning, seeking more help from mentors and marketing professionals earlier could have provided valuable insights into navigating the delicate balance between artistry and entrepreneurship. Essential skills include fostering patience, understanding the value of your craft, and dismantling the notion that financial acumen is separate from creativity.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My studio, ‘SoBetty,’ combines illustration and graphic design with a profound social conscience. It has carved its niche in working with various organizations, including nonprofits, environmental initiatives, and businesses rooted in awareness. Hailing from the vibrant landscapes of the Israeli desert, my work is deeply rooted in the blend of my Moroccan and Iraqi heritage, fostering a commitment to social justice and diversity. A jack-of-all-trades, I’ve worn hats as a fashion designer, makeup artist, and photographer, all avenues expressing my love for color and aesthetics. My personal work is a celebration of women in their rawest forms, intertwined with the rich narratives of the Middle East and North Africa while Exploring the intricate dance of femininity and the transformative power of healing. My art celebrates women engaged in the flow of life. Whether in moments of hardship or joy.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My creative journey is propelled by the pursuit of harmony between art and action, beauty and meaning. Inspired by the Jewish principle of ״tikkun olam״, repairing the world. I strive to contribute to the collective tapestry of repairing our world through design and art. It’s not just about creating; it’s about infusing every piece with intention and contributing to a greater purpose. Involvement in local initiatives and volunteering isn’t a side gig—it’s an integral part of my mission, believing in the potent synergy of community to nurture creativity and social awareness.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The true joy of making art for me is in the ability to articulate my thoughts, emotions, and ideas in a way that’s uniquely mine. Art becomes an avenue for self-expression and healing, a medium that has the potential to inspire, challenge, and incite change. The autonomy and freedom that come with being a creative professional allow me to explore various mediums, styles, and techniques. The fulfillment is found in sharing my work with the world, witnessing its resonance, and being a catalyst for vital social and cultural dialogues.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sobetty.co.il/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meitalshushan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studiobetty
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meital-shushan-01627829/