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

Vaishali, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the world was faced with an unprecedented crisis, where people were losing their lives and loved ones daily. Social distancing became the only way to curb the spread of the virus. However, the profession and brand I had built centered around close, personal connections — the physical act of creating henna art and teaching art in an interactive, hands-on way. With an indefinite period of isolation ahead, I found myself at a crossroads. Determined not to let this halt my passion, I turned to technology. I transitioned my in-person, 6-7 hours of art classes, which I typically conducted face-to-face in my studio with children, to a virtual platform: Zoom. It was unfamiliar territory for both me and my students, requiring significant adjustments on all sides. Initially, I struggled. I tried using my phone to display my work while teaching, but it was challenging to draw, give instructions, and monitor my students’ progress all at once. The connection I cherished with my students — the spark of witnessing their creativity unfold — felt diminished. It was disheartening to think that this new way of teaching might strip away the magic that had made my role as an art teacher so fulfilling. But I was determined not to give up. I scoured the internet and explored various tools to bridge the gap. Eventually, I invested in an overhead camera and set up a system that allowed me to display my artwork clearly while simultaneously engaging with my students through a monitor. This solution transformed my approach. Until it was safe to meet in person again, Zoom became a viable substitute for my studio. Moreover, it opened doors I hadn’t anticipated. I could now teach students across the United States and even internationally, reaching people of all ages and backgrounds. This unexpected challenge pushed me to expand ArtzAppeal to a level I never imagined. What initially felt like a setback turned into an incredible opportunity to connect with others, inspire creativity, and help students channel their unique personalities into their art, regardless of distance.

Vaishali, 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’m the founder of ArtzAppeal, where we specialize in creating organic, hand-crafted henna designs for brides, parties, and special events. My journey into this art form started with a deep admiration for the cultural beauty of Mehndi and a lifelong love for creativity. What began as a personal passion has grown into a business that allows me to connect with people and be part of their most cherished moments.

At ArtzAppeal, we focus on making every design unique, using only organic, skin-safe ingredients. From traditional patterns to contemporary styles like white and jagua henna, our goal is to create designs that resonate with our clients’ stories and celebrations. Whether it’s a bride preparing for her wedding day or a university event hosting hundreds of attendees, we work to ensure each client feels valued and celebrated.

I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with celebrities, film producers, and at large-scale events across the U.S., as well as teach students who share my love for henna. Over the years, I’ve built a small but dedicated team of talented artists who take pride in delivering beautiful designs and excellent service. At ArtzAppeal, we believe in going above and beyond to make every experience meaningful, convenient, and tailored to our clients’ needs.

What brings me the most joy is seeing how our work can brighten someone’s day—whether it’s helping a bride feel radiant or witnessing a student’s excitement as they master a new skill. I approach my work with gratitude for the trust my clients place in me and my team, and I’m honored to be part of so many special moments.

At the heart of ArtzAppeal is a commitment to authenticity, creativity, and connection. If you’re looking for a Mehndi artist who truly values your story and vision, I would be thrilled to be a part of your journey.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Art has always been more than just a visual experience—it’s a form of therapy that connects us to our innermost feelings and offers a sense of healing. I feel incredibly fulfilled when I can help people discover the therapeutic power of art. It’s not just about what we create but how the process of creating makes us feel.

As a passionate advocate for art therapy, I believe in its ability to unlock our internal creativity and channel it into meaningful expressions. This serendipitous process can be transformative, especially for those facing life’s toughest challenges. In my work, I’ve had the privilege of guiding patients undergoing cancer treatments, battling chronic health conditions, and navigating the mental toll these struggles can bring.

Through practices like repetitive mandala drawing, I’ve witnessed firsthand the immense benefits that art can offer for mental well-being. For just one hour a day, my 4.4 studio becomes a sanctuary—a space where individuals carrying the weight of the world can pause, embrace their creativity, and find peace within themselves. Being part of their journey, offering them a sense of freedom and mental liberation through art, is the most rewarding role I could imagine.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is deeply rooted in a mission to spread cultural awareness and appreciation—not just of my South Asian heritage but of the diverse cultures I encounter through my work. Doing henna for someone is such a unique and intimate experience. It’s a one-on-one moment where I can connect with someone on a personal, even spiritual level. It becomes more than just art; it’s a conversation, an exchange of energy, and a way to build understanding.

A common question I often get is, “What is henna?” That question opens the door for me to explain its cultural depth, its history, and its significance in South Asian traditions. It’s an opportunity to share my culture in an authentic and meaningful way, allowing someone else to experience a piece of it firsthand.

But my journey doesn’t stop there. Through these connections, I also get to learn about other people’s cultures, their stories, and what’s meaningful to them. This exchange is integral to the concept of diversity—not just the acceptance of other cultures but actively celebrating them while sharing my own.

For me, diversity means creating a space where cultures can coexist, where art and tradition can spark conversations, foster mutual respect, and deepen our understanding of one another. My work with henna embodies that mission: spreading awareness, building connections, and celebrating the beauty of cultural exchange in all its forms.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fartzappeal%2F&psig=AOvVaw0oaiwwn6tUWaLBNF2fW9_u&ust=1735956320271000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CAYQrpoMahcKEwiIrZK1u9iKAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA
• Facebook: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FArtzappeal%2F&psig=AOvVaw0oaiwwn6tUWaLBNF2fW9_u&ust=1735956320271000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CAYQrpoMahcKEwiIrZK1u9iKAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBg

Image Credits
SPhotos4U Instagram: @sphotos4u