Lissa Mel: Israeli Artist & L.A. Gallery Owner Talks Art, Homeland & Success

Sometimes, you have to just go for it, a statement that artist Lissa Mel (more info here) would surely agree with. The Israeli gallery owner threw caution to the wind and now owns a successful art gallery in Santa Monica. She was born in Uzbekistan and raised in Israel, specifically Tel Aviv. She had a secure job in business, but it left something to be desired. So, she took a calculated risk and moved to Los Angeles to pursue her artistic side.

Mel studied science and physics, and her art is an extension of those studies, an ongoing investigation of matter at a molecular level. She captures the peak of the vibrational wave of matter, which allows viewers to imagine what happens before and after. Mel’s art also explores her view of the human body as a vessel, depicting the interaction between feminine and masculine energies. Her work has been featured at the renowned Centaur Gallery, located in Las Vegas.

Today, we get to better know Lissa Mel, as we convene for some questions and answers about her accomplishments, how she views herself as an artist, and much more.

Lissa Mel wearing Alabama Blonde, photo by Reinhardt Kenneth

What do you think is your greatest accomplishment?

Lissa Mel: “I feel that my greatest accomplishment was becoming a mom nine years ago. Though, a close second would be creating my own fashion brand and opening my own gallery.”

What’s something you know isn’t real but wish existed?

“I wish flying transportation was easily accessible to all like cars are.”

What historical event would you most like to have experienced firsthand?

“I’m going to go with more of a future event I’d love to experience firsthand: the launching of a gallery in space.”

Lissa Mel wearing Le Réussi, photo by Reinhardt Kenneth

What always makes you nostalgic?

“Anytime I watch old Charlie Chaplin films, like Modern Times, I’m filled with nostalgia.”

When do you feel like the best version of yourself?

“I feel like the best version of myself when I accomplish everything I had set out to do in the day. Also, ensuring I exercise weekly and practice yoga daily definitely makes me feel like the best version of myself. And learning something new is an important one, too.”

What are three words that describe you?

“Ambitious, stubborn, and overachiever.”

Lissa Mel wearing VASEGHIA, photo by Reinhardt Kenneth

If you could hang out with a famous person (dead or alive) for one day, who would it be?

“Elon Musk.”

What is your favourite painting you’ve created and why?

“My favourite painting I created was ‘The Kiss.’ I painted it from deep emotions of love and longing for my daughter that resides in Israel.”

What message do you try to convey with your art?

“I hope to communicate the divine side of us as spiritual beings through the energy of the healing side of art. I try to elevate the viewer as much as possible as they observe my art.”

Lissa Mel (drums) wearing VASEGHIA, photo by Reinhardt Kenneth

What do you hope people feel when they walk into your art gallery?

“I hope they will feel happy, loved, and elevated in spirit.”

Describe your experience at your recent ARTEXPO exhibit.

“My experience was fabulous! I met a ton of artists and art collectors, and it is always inspiring to hear other artists’ stories. It’s a great opportunity to connect with a variety of creatives.”

What is next for you?

“In 2024, I am focusing on creating new sculptures and expanding my artistic endeavours into new domains. Additionally, I am preparing for my upcoming exhibition this May at ‘The Other Art Fair’ in Dallas, Texas, which will be a significant highlight of the year.”