Today we’d like to introduce you to Arnaya Needleman.
Hi Arnaya, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a self-taught abstract artist originally from Boston, and I’ve been living here in LA for a little over a year now. I’m still getting used to the art scene and West Coast culture altogether.
After completing both my Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice, I pursued careers in related fields until 2020. However, during the pandemic, I decided that I wanted to explore a more creative path. In 2021, I turned to painting as a form of therapy, and by 2022, I made a conscious decision to take my painting more seriously.
As I became more in tune with myself through my art, I found that I started to connect better with the people around me. Their growing interest in my art also boosted my confidence, ultimately leading me to participate in my first exhibition in New York. From there, things just kept rolling, so here I am!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been an easy journey for me. The more I delve into my art, the more I have to remind myself that I belong and that my work is indeed good enough. In a field as subjective as art, it’s hard not to compare yourself to others, especially when there are so many talented artists out there. Unlike the corporate world, where success is often measured by metrics and connections, in the art world, it’s about standing out and building your brand. (Connections are absolutely a plus too)
I’m still learning to find a balance between exploring my artistic identity and staying true to my passion. Sometimes, the reality of pursuing your passion doesn’t match the polished images you see on social media, and that can be challenging.
Another hurdle I face is deciding between creating art that resonates with me versus creating what I think others want. It’s tempting to prioritize financial gain and popularity, but I have to remember why I started in the first place – for myself. Painting is therapeutic for me, and that’s what I need to prioritize.
Lastly, I’m conscious of the privilege that comes with being able to create art, and I’m committed to breaking down barriers by making my art accessible and relatable to diverse communities. Abstract art celebrates beauty in imperfection, and that’s the essence of my story. I may not have formal training, but I believe there’s value in amplifying the voices of those who are simply trying to be heard.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an abstract artist who enjoys using acrylic paints and various mediums to craft vibrant, textured paintings centered around human emotion. Painting began as a means to alleviate stress and anxiety while serving as a powerful mode of expression. I feel like I communicate most effectively with a paintbrush rather than with words.
Being self-taught sets me apart from others in the art world. While I discovered this creative talent within me later in life, it has become an essential tool for self-expression and connection. Art empowers me to articulate my thoughts and emotions in ways I couldn’t before. It’s been transformative, giving me a voice and building up my self-esteem.
My art serves as a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and make an impact. Understanding and embracing oneself at the core fosters a sense of grounding and self-assurance. In today’s world, I truly believe that self-awareness will definitely lay the foundation for success…
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
It’s going to sound corny, but just stay true to who you are and why you started.
A couple things I wish I knew and in full transparency still figuring out. I’ve learned that there are a lot international and national galleries who unfortunately don’t have your best interest at heart, they just want your money. Even the ones who claim to be run by artists can get a little tricky.
Also, heads up, the number of followers someone has doesn’t at all determine how good they actually are- it’s wild how so many people buy their popularity and build up their “value” that way-oof, what a scam! Just focus on doing what makes you happy and leaves you feeling fulfilled.
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