We recently connected with Rhea Carmi and have shared our conversation below.
Rhea, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
A momentous occasion unfolded as Soka University bore witness to a retrospective exhibition that spanned three transformative months. Seventy-seven meticulously crafted works adorned the gallery walls, each a testament to the inexorable passage of time and the indomitable human spirit. Among these captivating installations, one stood as a beacon of remembrance and renewal—aptly titled “Full Cycle.”
In this evocative piece, five train cars stood as silent sentinels, symbolic of the harrowing journeys undertaken by countless souls, tragically bound for Auschwitz. Within the confines of these steel carriages, lives were uprooted, destinies irrevocably altered. Yet, amidst the weight of sorrow, hope arose from the earth itself—a wall piece, composed of earth’s humble elements: dirt, Sycamore seeds, and Sycamore leaves. Together, these materials wove a poignant narrative, illustrating the profound cycle of life. From a tiny seed, emerged the resplendent growth of a mature tree, adorned in lush foliage. And in the cyclical dance of seasons, leaves fell, surrendering to the earth, birthing new seeds—a perpetual symphony of rebirth.
Within the gallery’s hallowed space, an additional layer of emotional resonance unfurled—an intimate postcard, suspended with delicate grace, bearing the words penned by my late husband’s mother. A profound glimpse into her anguished journey, her poignant words spoke of the imminent transport to Auschwitz, a haunting precursor to the tragic fate that awaited her. Standing beside my husband, his presence serving as a poignant bridge to the past, I shared the stories of those lost to history, their voices echoing through the corridors of remembrance.
The students, captivated by the weighty significance of the Holocaust, engaged in a heartfelt dialogue—a stirring exchange that bore witness to their depth of understanding and their earnest pursuit of truth. Thought-provoking questions filled the air, each inquiry a testament to their desire to comprehend the incomprehensible. It was an honor to stand before these young minds, to serve as a conduit for the voices silenced by hatred and to pay tribute to my husband’s mother—a radiant soul whose light was extinguished far too soon.
In the sacred space of the exhibition, the collective memory of the fallen found solace in the hearts of those who dared to remember. Life’s eternal cycle, marred by unfathomable tragedy, unfolded before their eyes. And within the depths of their contemplation, the legacy of those lost souls persisted, carried forth by subsequent generations who embraced the mantle of remembrance and the ceaseless dance of life.
As the final notes of the exhibition reverberated, the profound significance of the experience remained etched upon the canvas of our collective consciousness. The exhibition at Soka University was more than a mere display of art—it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, an offering of remembrance to those who can no longer speak. And in this sacred union of art and history, their stories lived on, transcending the boundaries of time, ensuring that the echoes of their voices would never fade.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Born amidst the backdrop of Jerusalem in 1942, a city under the sway of the British Mandate of Palestine, my early years were marked by a turbulent existence. The tumultuous landscape of Israel, fraught with the scars of countless wars and the heart-wrenching loss of beloved family members, shaped the contours of my formative experiences.
Initially drawn to the realm of science, I embarked on a career path that led me to the esteemed Physiology Department of the Hebrew University. It was a realm of rigorous exploration and intellectual fervor, offering solace and purpose. However, the cataclysmic arrival of the Yom Kippur War in 1973 dealt a devastating blow—a personal tragedy that forever altered the trajectory of my life. It was during this tumultuous period of grief and introspection that I turned to the transformative power of art, seeking solace and a channel for self-expression. Enrolling in art studies at both Tel Aviv University and the revered Ramat Gan Institution for the Arts, I embraced this new path with unwavering determination.
As I emerged from the crucible of artistic education, I embarked on a series of exhibitions that resonated deeply with viewers and garnered resounding praise from critics. In 1981, my family and I made the courageous decision to embark on a new chapter, leaving behind the familiar shores of Israel and setting foot upon the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles. Together, we toiled tirelessly to establish a business, while I indulged my artistic calling intermittently. However, in 1991, I heeded the clarion call of my creative spirit, making the resolute decision to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to the art of painting—a daily practice that would become the cornerstone of my existence.
Abstract art, with its ethereal language and infinite possibilities, became my chosen medium of self-expression. It resonated with the depths of my being, allowing me to transcend the boundaries of the tangible world and venture into the realms of the intangible. My artistic repertoire expanded to encompass a rich array of materials—tar, dirt, paper, wires, metal, sand, and glues—each possessing a unique voice waiting to be heard. Drawing inspiration from my scientific background and my insatiable thirst for exploration, I immersed myself in the creative process, birthing a staggering collection of 800 artworks that bear witness to my artistic odyssey.
Themes, like mercurial spirits, shape-shifted throughout the tapestry of my artistic evolution. Initially, I delved into the struggles and triumphs of humanity, seeking to capture the essence of our collective existence. Gradually, the resilience that courses through our veins emerged as a focal point—an eternal flame that refuses to be extinguished. And then, with the birth of my grandchildren, a new series bloomed—titled “Everlasting Spirit,” a jubilant celebration of life’s inexorable cycles and the magnificence of nature’s embrace. Yet, as I immersed myself in the vibrant tapestry of nature, I could not turn a blind eye to the wounds we inflict upon our fragile planet. And so, two new series emerged—”Our Fragile Earth” and “Earth and Water”—a call to action, a poignant reminder of our interconnectedness and our collective responsibility.
The fruits of my artistic labor have transcended geographical boundaries, beckoning viewers across the globe. From the storied galleries of Israel to the vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles, from the pulsating energy of San Diego to the bustling metropolis of New York, my art has found its rightful place on the international stage, gracing the walls of Italy, Germany, France, Canada, and Australia. And now, in a cherished moment of honor and recognition, my art will grace the hallowed halls of the Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum this June—an opportunity to weave my narrative into the vibrant tapestry of the East.
Yet, my artistic endeavors extend beyond the realms of creation. In a testament to my unwavering dedication to the arts, I find myself entrusted with the management of Rhea Gallery—a venture that allows me to both nurture the artistic journeys of others and cultivate an environment where the transformative power of art can flourish.
As I gaze upon the path I have traversed—a path illuminated by the radiant hues of artistic expression—I am filled with gratitude for the remarkable experiences that have enriched my soul. The threads of my life, woven with resilience, passion, and an unyielding love for the creative process, have led me to this moment—a moment where art becomes an unspoken language, traversing barriers and bridging the divide between souls. With every brushstroke, every stroke of the curator’s hand, I continue to paint the tapestry of my existence, ready to embrace the infinite possibilities that await on the ever-unfolding canvas of life.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The process of creating art is a transformative journey—one that encompasses both catharsis and exhilaration. It commences with a blank canvas, a pristine medium brimming with boundless possibilities, where the artist assumes the role of both curator and conduit, choosing subjects that resonate with their soul and beckoning their subconscious to reveal its innermost expressions. For me, art is not merely a pastime; it assumes a far more profound significance—it breathes life into our existence, transcending the banality of everyday affairs and elevating our spirits to ethereal realms.
As an artist, I hold an unwavering belief in the profound impact that art can have on our lives. It possesses a unique ability to transcend language barriers and cultural divides, speaking to the universal essence of the human experience. This conviction fuels my desire to share my creations with the world, to invite others to partake in the dialogue that unfolds between the artwork and the viewer. In opening my art to public scrutiny, I am granted a precious opportunity—an invitation to listen, to learn, and to be moved by the myriad interpretations that ensue.
Of all the experiences I have encountered throughout my artistic journey, few rival the sheer joy and fulfillment derived from witnessing the interpretations of children. Their unencumbered perspectives, unburdened by preconceived notions or societal constraints, breathe a refreshing vitality into the creative exchange. To hear their innocent voices recount their impressions and glean insights from their boundless imaginations is truly a treasure that nourishes my artistic spirit.
Indeed, the act of sharing art with the public is a symbiotic relationship—one that transcends the confines of the canvas and permeates the very fabric of our shared human experience. Through this process, I am enriched by the collective wisdom and diverse perspectives that are unveiled before me. The interplay between artist and audience engenders a dialogue that extends beyond the physical realm, a meeting of minds and souls that unites us in our quest for meaning and connection.
In the tapestry of life, art occupies a hallowed space—a realm where the intangible finds form and the ordinary is infused with the extraordinary. As an artist, I am humbled by the opportunity to contribute to this eternal tapestry, to leave an indelible mark upon the canvas of existence. It is through the act of creation, the sharing of our art, and the reception of others’ interpretations that we embark upon a profound journey of self-discovery and collective enlightenment.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I immigrated to the United States and settled in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. As a newcomer to this vast artistic landscape, I found myself devoid of connections and unaware of the individuals who inhabited the trade. Determined to make my mark, I embarked on an ambitious endeavor, producing an extensive body of work that captured the essence of my artistic vision. To showcase my creations, I painstakingly constructed a website, a digital haven where my art could find its voice.
Eager to introduce my work to the world, I ventured into galleries that displayed art akin to my own. Alas, my efforts were met with mixed reactions. Some establishments treated me with outright indifference, not even sparing a glance in the direction of my art. Others, intrigued by my presence, inquired about my exhibition history and whether I had graced the walls of prestigious museums. With honesty, I confessed my newcomer status, but it seemed that even the slightest curiosity in my art eluded them.
Nevertheless, undeterred by these initial setbacks, I persisted in my creative pursuits, convinced that one day, someone would bear witness to my artistry and afford me the chance I so fervently sought. It was in the year 2004 when the tides of fate shifted in my favor, as a renowned art critic by the name of Peter Frank graced me with an extraordinary opportunity. This esteemed connoisseur of the arts curated my very first solo exhibition, propelling my career forward with an unprecedented force.
The impact of this collaboration proved to be nothing short of astonishing. The exhibition, which Peter Frank so meticulously assembled, garnered such acclaim that it soon transcended the boundaries of Los Angeles. Its success radiated across the coast, reaching the coastal enclave of La Jolla, before ultimately transcending international borders and captivating audiences in Hamburg, Germany. These transformative experiences opened a multitude of doors for me, unlocking realms of possibility I had only dared to dream of.
In retrospect, my journey serves as a testament to the timeless virtues of hard work and resilience. Despite the initial disregard I faced and the uphill battle I confronted as an immigrant artist, I remained steadfast in my dedication to my craft. Through unwavering determination and an unwavering belief in the power of my art, I triumphed. Each brushstroke, each stroke of the keyboard as I constructed my digital portfolio, propelled me closer to the moment when my talent would be acknowledged.
As I reflect upon my past, I am reminded of the resounding truth that hard work, coupled with an unyielding spirit, inevitably leads to fruition. The path to recognition may be arduous, but it is through persistence and unwavering dedication that we carve our own destiny. I stand here today, a living testament to the enduring power of artistic expression, ready to seize the limitless opportunities that lie ahead. 
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rheacarmi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheacarmi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhea.carmi.art
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhea-carmi-b7724042/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RheaCarmi
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhea_Carmi
Image Credits
not applicable, all images are mine.