We’re looking forward to introducing you to Elisheva Pierce. Check out our conversation below.
Elisheva, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m wandering. Since 2023, I’ve been trying this new thing where I’m allowing myself to be open-minded to the opportunities that present themselves. I’ve let go of control, emotionally clinging to plans, and have learned to embrace going with the flow if there are disruptions in plans. Everyone isn’t the same, so you’ll hear about how sticking to plans works best for people, but for me, life hasn’t allowed me to stick to my plans. I’ve always had obstructions or disruptions, so I’ve had to learn to go with the flow and make the best of what I’m presented. I would also like to mention that while wandering, strong discernment and optimism are really important to develop. Optimism doesn’t come as easily for me, so I have to push myself hard to think positively.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Elisheva Pierce, and I’m also known as Anisa Zaman. I was gifted a muslim name by friends that I’ve made. I am an internationally recognized illustrator and painter originally from Atlanta, Georgia, but based in Los Angeles, California. I’m also an aspiring muralist. Currently, I am creating a few paintings, and I’m building an arts company called Creative Oasis Artists for various gifted artists to work together on different art projects such as murals, paintings, illustrations, logos, graphic design, digital art, animations, and so much more. The reason why I’m building this art company is that I have a heart for the marginalized creatives who don’t have the freedom to be creatives because they aren’t given opportunities and are forced to live in survival mode. So much of my heart is invested in keeping the art world alive and helping artists who are struggling or are in desolate situations. So I guess, alongside being an artist, I’m also a humanitarian.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
A random man in Little Five Points, located in East Atlanta, looked at my face and said, “You’re supposed to be an artist! But you’re scared. You need to face your fears and just go for it all the way, because it’s going to take you places that you would’ve never imagined.” I didn’t get to catch his name, but I’ll never forget what he said that day. Before he said this, I was uncertain about whether I should be doing art or finding a different career path due to the stigma behind being a “starving artist.” I have always been fearful of taking art seriously due to the rumors of visual art being an unstable career choice.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, I very recently almost gave up on being an artist because of how much AI art has negatively affected commissioned art and art opportunities for many artists. However, I received more confirmation that I’m supposed to stick to being an artist. Life throws signs when we’re on the right path. The moment that I told people that I am thinking of quitting art, some unforeseen events occurred where I randomly ended up in Los Angeles, California, with family that wants me to keep pushing in art.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
I believe in the natural flow of the universe, the underlying principle that connects all things. Trusting the process and believing that everything will work out the way that it’s supposed to, even if the path isn’t predictable. I believe in stress reduction, which is letting go of the need to control everything. Individuals can experience less stress and anxiety. Also, some things in nature flourish and bloom beautifully on their own without control. The same can be applied in life. I believe in “Going with the flow,” which can open up new possibilities and perspectives that might be missed when rigidly adhering to a plan. It’s not so much apathy, but it’s more about choosing to respond to situations with flexibility and acceptance, rather than resistance. Through all of this, having balance is important. For relationships and serious situations, it’s important to communicate, have boundaries, and be resilient.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Sonder. I’m not sure that most people don’t understand sonder, but it seems so. I understand that most people are living lives that are as complex and complicated as our own, so we are only the main character from our own perspective. Also, that we’re all connected. Also, the Earth needs to be deeply illuminated with art because that is raw human expression.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elishevapierce.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/artsbarbi
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elishevazaman/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elishevapierce/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artsbarbie
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@artsbarbi
artsbarbie@gmail.com
Image Credits
First photo is a picture of the extremely talented and popular Iraqi painter, Resso Ibrahim, painting a portrait of artist, Elisheva Pierce, as a tribute to her.
Second image is a print of E C H E T U, by Elisheva Pierce, framed by a buyer.
Third image is of the original painting “E C H E T U” by Elisheva Pierce, being displayed the University of Mosul, in Mosul, Iraq.
Fourth image is of the original painting, “E C H E T U”, by Elisheva Pierce.
Fifth image is artist, Elisheva Pierce, painting a family portrait.
Sixth image is a digital painting, by Elisheva Pierce, of crying tears. This digital painting was an emotional tribute to the families and victims of the Uvalde school shooting.
Seventh painting is an original painting by, Elisheva Pierce, of a man from Chicano culture.
