MUNTHE ART MONDAY: KEA ELISA

Please introduce yourself and tell us about what you do.

My name is Kea Elisa, and I'm an artist born and raised in the northernmost state of Germany, Schleswig-Holstein. My art is deeply influenced by my passion for travel and exploration. I specialize in creating contemporary abstract paintings that reflect the places I've visited and the emotions I've felt during my journeys. For instance, I embarked on a 42-day sailing adventure across the Atlantic Ocean, starting from Uruguay and making stops in Brazil and Portugal. This incredible experience inspired my 'Sailing' series, which captures the sense of freedom and adventure I experienced on the open sea. Additionally, I've explored other destinations such as Costa Rica, mainly in Santa Teresa for longboard surfing trip. My artwork also reflects my experiences in places like Patagonia, Sydney, and Valencia, each series telling its own unique story. And then I have a Homecoming Collection, that reminds us that sometimes, the most extraordinary destination is right where you started. In my art, I love working with acrylics and adding embroidered details to my pieces—it's a technique that allows me to express myself creatively in a unique style. Aside from my artistic endeavours, I hold a Bachelor of Art in Real Estate Management. This background provides me with a practical understanding of property and space, which I incorporate into my artistic practice. During my internship at a Luxury Real Estate company in Ibiza, I drew inspiration from renowned architect Rolf Blakstad, known for his distinctive Ibicenco architectural styles, further enriching my artistic perspective.

Kea is wearing ARUM SILK pants and ASEIA SILK.

Can you name some other female (artist) that inspires you and explain why they do so?

Frida Kahlo inspires me a lot, even though she's quite famous and cliché. I really admire how she was never afraid to express herself in her art, even when life was tough for her. I once saw her original drawings in Uruguay, and they really impressed me, except for some political symbols. Still, her ability to turn her struggles into beautiful art really touched me. It made me realize how important it is to be true to myself and express my own feelings in my artwork.

Kea is wearing ARUM SILK pants and ASEIA SILK shirt.

Could you explain more about how being a woman has affected your career?

As a woman in the arts, I've encountered both challenges and opportunities. While there have been instances of gender biases and stereotypes in the industry, I've also found inspiration in the achievements of other female artists who have paved the way for women like myself. Overall, being a woman has shaped my perspective and approach to art, but it hasn't deterred me from pursuing my passion and achieving success in my field.

What has been the most challenging aspect of being a woman in the arts?

The most challenging aspect of being in the arts, particularly in terms of being taken seriously, revolves around the misconception that it's merely a hobby rather than a way of life. For me, art isn't just something I do on the side; it's an integral part of who I am and how I navigate the world. It encompasses my entire lifestyle, influencing my decisions, perspectives, and interactions on a daily basis. However, breaking through the perception that art is simply a pastime has proven to be a significant hurdle. I'm deeply committed to my craft and seek to share it with a broader audience, hoping to connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for creativity and self-expression. Yet, gaining recognition and respect as a serious artist requires overcoming preconceived notions and demonstrating the depth and sincerity of my artistic endeavors. It's a constant effort to communicate the profound impact that art has on my life and to foster meaningful connections with others through my work.

What would you like people to notice in your artwork?

In my artwork, I hope people notice the sense of boundless wanderlust and adventure that drives me. Each painting reflects my experiences and emotions, capturing the essence of the places I've visited and the connections I've formed along the way. I want viewers to feel inspired to embark on their own visual journeys and explore the world through my eyes.