For me, art is an unconscious process that stems from an inner, sensory, and experiential place. Creation always begins with a single line that spreads into a colorful, expressive stain. In my works, I choose to combine intense staining with soft monochromatic colors, allowing the viewer a glimpse into the depths of the soul.
I grew up in an Orthodox Haredi household where engaging in or consuming art was forbidden, yet the need to create was vital for me. Today, art is my way of breathing and expressing what I feel. In my recent works, I focus on wolves and birds of prey, often considered frightening, but for me, they symbolize community protection and mutual responsibility. My creations also reflect my personal experiences and the tension between what appears threatening and the protection and strength within.
In the past, I explored the world of billboards as canvases for my creations. I painted enormous portraits, such as my grandmother Nona and a beggar I saw on the street. The immense size, textures, and existing texts on the billboards opened new dimensions in my work, allowing me to express human experiences on a monumental scale.
During the COVID-19 period, I transitioned to using bright, floral colors to bring light into the cultural darkness of those days. Since then, I continue to paint tree trunks, representing for me growth from the ashes.
Following the shocking experiences of October 7th, the terrible loss that occurred, and the loss of trust in decision-makers, I began painting colorful butterflies in various shapes. These symbolize for me inner liberation and a longing for freedom and light, so absent during this period. The butterflies are not necessarily connected to the physical reality of nature but express emotions and the desire to escape from pain and darkness towards a hopeful future. In the same spirit, the birds I paint reflect my feelings and hope for a better future, full of light, freedom, and tranquility.
For the past two years, I have been guiding associative painting for women dealing with cancer, believing in the healing power of art. Painting allows them to release all their physical and emotional pain, and some have achieved near-complete recovery. Through my creations and work with them, I aim to illuminate the beauty and complexity of the human experience and invite viewers to see the world through a lens of empathy and hope.