Photo: Courtesy of Riki Chanin
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
I’m 37. I grew up in Far Rockaway, NY. Met my Chabad husband in my teens, and now I live in Crown Heights.
What inspired you to become an artist?
I was always artsy, I used to draw in my room when I was younger. Then it turned into acrylic painting. That’s my happy place.
What is your specialty?
I love doing scenery and paint pouring, where you mix acrylic paint and other things and pour it on a canvas. I love how they always come out different.
How and where do you work?
I have a small studio in my house and I go to people’s houses for paint parties. They call me for Birthdays, Bas Mitzvahs, etc.
What is the most indispensable item in your studio?
I’d say the paint. You can’t paint without paint.
Where do you take your inspiration? Are you pursuing any themes?
I love following fellow artists and seeing what they create gives me inspiration to do the same in my own way.
Do you do bespoke work?
Yes
What projects are you currently working on?
I’m learning how to use resin and make jewelry out of it.
What is your favourite item in your current collection?
I have a huge 20×30” paint pour that’s currently in my kitchen but I would love to sell to the right person. I love pouring with blues, because it looks like the ocean, calm and serene.
How do you know when a piece is finished?
I guess it’s just artist intuition.
What was the first artwork you ever sold?
A cartoon character painting with my friend’s son’s name on it.
Which project have you enjoyed working on the most so far?
I enjoy all of them, especially teaching people who have never painted before and are proud of what they made. When they enjoy themselves, it makes it all worth it.
What do you want to achieve with your work and what are your wishes for the future?
I’d love to have a gallery showing of my art so I can show it to more potential buyers. I have so much art to share.
Where can we find your work?
Photos: Courtesy of Riki Chanin
