Photographer Chris Martin

Lissa, your journey from a secure business job in Tel Aviv to pursuing art in Los Angeles is quite remarkable. What inspired this transition, and how has it influenced your artistic vision and practice?

Although I held a secure business position in Tel Aviv, I always envisioned fully committing to art someday. The transition to Los Angeles was driven by my dream to dedicate myself entirely to art. This city, with its vibrant artistic community and bustling movie industry, has been an incredible source of inspiration. My artistic vision and practice have been profoundly influenced by the diverse cultural traditions found here, enabling a rich exploration of different styles and narratives. Los Angeles offers a unique environment where art and cinema intersect, which continually enriches my work and drives my creative evolution.

Your abstract art delves into the molecular level of matter, capturing the vibrational wave in a unique way. Can you elaborate on how your background in science and physics informs your artistic exploration of matter and energy?

From a young age, I was fascinated by physics, chemistry and astronomy, immersing myself in these subjects during high school. This foundational understanding of the sciences deeply influenced my artistic process. In addition, my regular  yoga and meditation practices further enrich this connection. In my meditative states, I perceive the world at a molecular level, visualizing matter and energy as vibrant, interacting particles. These visions are then transformed into the abstract art that I create, capturing the dynamic vibrational waves of matter in a unique way. Thus, my work is a blend of scientific insight and spiritual practice, bridging the gap between the empirical and the experiential.

Owning a gallery in Santa Monica is a significant achievement. What motivated you to start your own gallery, and what have been some of the challenges and rewards of running it?

Owning a gallery in Santa Monica has been both a significant achievement and a natural step for me. I’ve always been passionate about working with artists and feel inspired by being part of their creative process. The opportunity to start my own gallery came about when everything seemed to align perfectly—supportive people and the right circumstances converged, making it clear that it was the right time to make the move. Running the gallery allows me to foster a vibrant artistic community, creating a space for like-minded individuals to collaborate and grow.

However, the journey does not come without its own set of challenges. Working with other artists can be complex, as meeting their individual expectations and achieving immediate market success often takes time. The art market doesn’t always respond quickly, and it can be challenging to balance the creative aspirations of artists with the commercial realities of the gallery. Despite these challenges, the rewards are immense. Building a community, witnessing the evolution of artists, and contributing to the cultural landscape are deeply fulfilling aspects of running my gallery. 

As an immigrant artist and gallery owner, what do you feel sets the art scene in Los Angeles apart from the Middle East, and how do you navigate the differences in culture and artistic expression?

Navigating the cultural and artistic differences between these regions involves a deep understanding and appreciation of both. In Los Angeles, the artistic expressions are as diverse as its population, embracing a wide range of styles and narratives that reflect its multicultural makeup. This contrasts with the Middle East, where art often intertwines more directly with regional histories and cultural narratives. Balancing these perspectives in my work and gallery has been a rewarding challenge, allowing me to blend diverse artistic traditions and innovations.

Your art often explores the interaction between feminine and masculine energies. How do you incorporate these themes into your work, and what message do you hope viewers take away from it?

In my artwork, I delve into the interplay of feminine and masculine energies by highlighting their distinct characteristics through color, texture and symbolic imagery. Each piece is designed to showcase how these energies, while inherently different, can harmonize and create a unified whole. My intention is to convey that both masculine and feminine energies are present within everyone. Each represents different aspects of our lives and the world at large. By using symbols that embody these energies, my art reflects the concept of unity in diversity, much like the yin and yang. The overarching message I hope viewers take away is one of balance and wholeness. 

You're represented by the renowned Centaur Gallery in Las Vegas. Can you share with us your experience working with them and how it has contributed to your artistic career?

Working with the Centaur Art Gallery in Las Vegas has been an invaluable part of my artistic journey. Established over 20 years ago, the gallery has a rich history and hosts an impressive array of artworks. Such works include original, signed prints from masters like Dalí, Picasso and Degas, in addition to pieces by select contemporary artists. This diverse collection has greatly broadened my exposure to different artistic periods and styles, deepening my appreciation of how art reflects various cultural facets.

Furthermore, the gallery’s owner has been an incredible mentor to me. Through our collaboration, I’ve gained profound insights into the art world from the dual perspectives of a gallerists and a gallery owner. This mentorship has helped me understand the intricacies of the art market and refine my approach to art creation and presentation, significantly enhancing my career development.

Your gallery likely showcases a diverse range of artists and styles. How do you curate exhibitions and select artists to represent, and what do you look for in the art you choose to display?

In curating exhibitions and selecting artists for my gallery, my approach is deeply intuitive. The first criterion is my personal response to the artwork—I trust my instincts about what moves me and what I believe will resonate with our audience. Additionally, meeting with the artists is crucial. I look for a certain rapport and shared understanding because a strong connection with the artist makes  it easier and more fulfilling to promote their work.

When it comes to displaying art, I find it immensely rewarding to work with artists who feel like family. This sense of community and mutual respect shapes our gallery’s atmosphere, making it a dynamic space where diverse expressions and styles come together. Ultimately, my goal is to create a harmonious, yet eclectic, collection that engages and inspires our visitors.

In your opinion, what role does art play in fostering cultural understanding and dialogue, particularly in the context of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East?

In my perspective, art serves as a powerful medium for fostering mutual understanding and an open dialogue between cultures, especially amid the complex tensions in the Middle East. It does more than bridge cultural divides; it uplifts and elevates, imbuing joy and inspiration into the lives of those who engage with it. Through its ability to evoke feelings of love and upliftment, art plays a crucial role in nurturing creativity and empathy among viewers. This emotional resonance is vital in times of conflict, as it opens pathways to compassion and understanding. I firmly believe that art is essential for the future—it not only reflects our current society but molds the contours of our collective tomorrow.

As a female artist and gallery owner, do you feel there are unique challenges or opportunities you face in the art world, and how do you navigate them?

As a female artist and gallery owner, I hold the view that the opportunities in the art world are generally equitable and transcend gender. I believe that women possess the same capacity for creativity and leadership as their male counterparts, enabling us to seize and maximize opportunities just as effectively. However, while the playing field may be level in theory, navigating it can sometimes reveal subtle biases. My approach to overcoming any challenges involves focusing on the quality and integrity of the work I present and maintaining a strong, supportive network. By fostering a community that values inclusivity and diversity, I strive to not only advance my career but also contribute to a broader cultural shift towards genuine equality in the art world. 

Lastly, considering your background and experiences, what hopes do you hold for the future, both for your art and for the prospects of peace in your homeland and beyond?

My hopes for the future are deeply rooted in both my personal aspirations and my desires for global harmony. I dream of a world where peace prevails across all nations, allowing artists and individuals from every background to create freely and express themselves without constraint. I wish for universal freedom of expression, unimpeded by the circumstances that currently restrict many. As for my art, I hope it continues to serve as a medium that transcends barriers and fosters understanding and connection. Ultimately, my greatest aspiration is for a future where peace is not just an ideal, but a reality for everyone.