By: Olga Amraie
Interviewer: Can you tell us about your journey as an artist and how living in New York has influenced your work?
Yair Zeharia: My journey as an artist has been both exhilarating and challenging. It all began in my childhood, where I found solace and expression in drawing and painting. As I grew older, this passion only deepened, leading me to pursue formal education in the arts.
Moving to New York was a pivotal moment in my career. The city’s vibrant energy, diverse cultures, and rich artistic history have profoundly influenced my work. Living here, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in a community of talented and driven artists. The constant exposure to cutting-edge art and the dynamic urban environment has pushed me to experiment with new styles and mediums.
New York’s fast pace and the endless sources of inspiration, from street art to world-class museums, have made me more versatile and innovative in my approach. The challenges of living in such a competitive and demanding city have also taught me resilience and the importance of staying true to my vision.
Overall, New York has not only shaped my artistic style but also my perspective on the world, infusing my work with a unique blend of raw urban energy and profound human experiences.
Interviewer: How do you balance your time between being an artist and a businessman in such a vibrant city?
Yair Zeharia: Balancing my time between being an artist and a businessman in New York City is an ongoing challenge that requires careful planning and a strong sense of discipline. I prioritize my creative work, dedicating specific hours each day to my art, ensuring that I remain productive and inspired.
Simultaneously, I allocate time for the business aspects, such as networking, marketing, and managing finances. Living in such a vibrant city means there are countless opportunities to connect with other professionals and showcase my work, which is essential for growing my career.
To maintain this balance, I rely on a structured schedule, setting clear goals and deadlines for both my artistic projects and business tasks. I also make sure to take breaks and engage in activities that rejuvenate my creativity, such as visiting galleries or simply exploring the city’s eclectic neighborhoods.
Ultimately, it’s about finding harmony between my passion for creating and the practical necessities of sustaining a successful career. New York’s dynamic environment continuously inspires me to innovate and adapt, allowing me to thrive as both an artist and a businessman.
Interviewer: What are your future plans and projects, and how do you see your art evolving in the next few years?
Yair Zeharia: In the next few years, I see my art evolving to incorporate more interdisciplinary collaborations. I’m interested in partnering with artists from different fields, such as music, dance, and virtual reality, to create immersive and multifaceted experiences. This approach will allow me to experiment with new forms and narratives, enriching my work and broadening its impact.
Additionally, I’m planning to expand my presence internationally by participating in more global exhibitions and art fairs. This will not only increase my exposure but also provide fresh perspectives and inspiration from diverse cultures.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue growing as an artist, constantly challenging myself and my audience. I want my work to resonate on a deeper level, sparking conversations and connecting with people across the world. The journey ahead is both daunting and exhilarating, and I’m eager to see where it takes me.
Interviewer: Can you share some specific experiences or moments that have significantly impacted your artistic journey?
Yair Zeharia: There have been numerous moments that have significantly impacted my artistic journey. One particularly memorable experience was my first solo exhibition in New York. The overwhelming support and positive feedback from the art community and the public were incredibly validating and motivating.
Another pivotal moment was collaborating with a renowned street artist on a mural project in Brooklyn. This collaboration pushed me out of my comfort zone and exposed me to new techniques and perspectives. It was a transformative experience that deeply influenced my subsequent works.
Traveling and experiencing different cultures have also played a crucial role in shaping my art. Visiting places like Tokyo, Berlin, and Rio de Janeiro has broadened my understanding of art and inspired me to incorporate diverse elements into my work. Each city has its unique artistic flavor, and these experiences have enriched my creative process.
Interviewer: How do you stay inspired and keep your creativity flowing amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City?
Yair Zeharia: Staying inspired in a city as fast-paced as New York requires a conscious effort to remain open to new experiences and ideas. I find inspiration in the everyday moments and interactions that occur in this bustling metropolis. The city’s diverse population, vibrant street life, and constant state of flux provide a never-ending source of material for my work.
I also make it a point to regularly visit galleries, museums, and art events. Engaging with the work of other artists, both contemporary and historical, helps me to stay connected to the broader artistic discourse and stimulates new ideas.
Taking time to explore the city’s various neighborhoods and immersing myself in its cultural offerings, from food to music to theater, also fuels my creativity. These experiences not only inspire my art but also provide a necessary balance to the demands of my career.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are trying to make a name for themselves in New York?
Yair Zeharia: My advice to aspiring artists in New York is to stay true to your vision and be persistent. The city can be overwhelming and competitive, but it also offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and exposure.
It’s important to build a strong network within the art community. Attend events, connect with other artists, and seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. Collaborations and partnerships can also open up new avenues for creativity and visibility.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks with your work. The most innovative and impactful art often comes from pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
Lastly, remember to take care of yourself and find a balance between your creative pursuits and personal well-being. The journey of an artist is a marathon, not a sprint, and maintaining your passion and inspiration is crucial for long-term success.
Interviewer: How do you see the role of technology in the future of art, and are you incorporating any technological elements into your current work?
Yair Zeharia: Technology is playing an increasingly significant role in the art world, and I see it as a powerful tool for expanding the possibilities of artistic expression. From digital art and virtual reality to blockchain and NFTs, technology is transforming how we create, experience, and distribute art.
I have been exploring the integration of technology into my work in various ways. For instance, I’ve experimented with digital painting and 3D modeling to create pieces that blend traditional techniques with modern digital tools. I’m also interested in using virtual reality to create immersive art experiences that engage viewers on a multisensory level.
Moreover, technology enables artists to reach a global audience more easily. Social media, online galleries, and virtual exhibitions provide platforms for showcasing work and connecting with art enthusiasts worldwide. Embracing these technological advancements can help artists stay relevant and innovative in an ever-evolving landscape.
Interviewer: What do you hope people take away from your art?
Yair Zeharia: I hope that my art resonates with people on an emotional and intellectual level. I want my work to spark conversations, provoke thought, and elicit a sense of connection and understanding. Each piece I create is a reflection of my experiences, observations, and emotions, and I strive to convey these elements in a way that is both personal and universal.
Ultimately, I want my art to inspire viewers to see the world from new perspectives and to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the human experience. Whether it’s through the exploration of social issues, the celebration of cultural diversity, or the depiction of everyday life, I aim to create work that is meaningful and impactful.
Interviewer: Thank you, Yair, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We look forward to seeing how your art continues to evolve and inspire.
Yair Zeharia: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure sharing my journey with you and your readers.
Published by: Khy Talara
