Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Shine.
Hi Lisa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey as an artist began long before I ever picked up a brush. Growing up in a home surrounded by art and music, creativity was more than encouraged, it was part of everyday life. My parents were passionate lovers of both, filling our home with paintings, sculptures, and the sounds of instruments they played themselves. They made sure my sisters and I were constantly immersed in the arts, from attending organ concerts at local churches to exploring museum exhibitions and paging through books on art history.
That early exposure sparked something in me. A lasting appreciation for beauty, form, and movement. My parents not only nurtured my curiosity but also taught me that art is an expression of joy, both for the creator and the observer. I make art to express myself positively, to channel my emotions and experiences into something that can uplift others just as much as it fulfills me.
My family, past and present, continues to be a powerful influence, always giving me the confidence to explore my artistic passions and push the boundaries of what I create. That foundation inspires every new piece, guiding my desire to capture movement, emotion, and energy in vibrant, unexpected ways.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but each step has taught me something valuable. Like many artists, my greatest challenges have often come from within: moments of self-doubt, insecurities, and that ever-present question: “Is my art good enough?” For a long time, I was afraid of being judged, and that hesitation sometimes held me back from sharing my work.
Over time, I’ve learned that growth only happens when you’re willing to be seen. You have to put yourself out there, imperfections and all, and trust that your art will find the people it’s meant to reach. Working in the mental health field has deepened that understanding for me. I’ve come to see art as a form of healing, a way to work on yourself while creating something that can lift others.
When I paint, I find release and renewal in the process. I want others to feel that same sense of freedom. To get lost in the colors, the shapes, and the movement, and maybe feel a gentle lift of spirit . Whether you’re the creator or the viewer, art has a way of helping us step outside ourselves and rediscover joy.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m most known for my use of color: vibrant, energetic, and full of movement. No matter the medium, color is always the heartbeat of my work. I’m drawn to the challenge of taking a concept from my mind and translating it into something tangible, whether through sweeping, bold brushstrokes on a canvas or carving rhythm and form from a solid block of plaster.
I love the physicality of creating, the push and pull between structure and spontaneity. In my paintings, sharp, distinct lines weave through smooth shapes and gradual gradients, forming a visual rhythm that feels both intentional and free. My work is distinctly abstract, defined by a natural flow that blends order and expression. Often, these elements mirror my own experiences with mental health, with contrasts and tensions — sharpness and softness, chaos and calm — representing the emotional highs and lows we all face.
Working in the mental health field has deepened my understanding of this connection. I see my paintings not only as a personal outlet, but as a visual representation of the struggles and triumphs inherent in mental health. Each piece becomes a bridge, allowing viewers to connect with those emotions, find meaning in complexity, and experience a sense of release or lightness.
What sets my work apart is that each piece is both an exploration and an emotion. A fusion of color, shape, and movement that tells a story of resilience, hope, and the beauty that can emerge from struggle. My goal is for viewers to feel uplifted, inspired, and connected, as if the colors themselves are breathing energy into the space around them.
What makes you happy?
I feel happiest when I’m able to help someone. There’s a unique warmth in knowing that a small act of kindness, a smile, a word of encouragement, or simply being present can make a difference in someone’s day. People often carry unseen burdens, and even the simplest gestures of love and support can lift them in meaningful ways. That same desire to bring joy and connection is at the heart of my art.
My work is inspired by life itself, the emotions, experiences, and moments that shape us. Growing up surrounded by music and art, I learned early that creativity is both a refuge and a way to connect with others. Today, my personal experiences with mental health continue to inform my work. Each painting is a way to process emotions, explore contrasts, and find balance, translating the complexities of life into color, line, and movement.
In my creative process, I start with an idea or feeling I want to explore, then let the materials guide me. Sharp lines meet soft gradients, bold brushstrokes contrast with smooth shapes, and abstract forms emerge that evoke both motion and calm. Through this interplay of elements, I aim to capture a sense of flow and transformation, visually representing struggle, resilience, and the joy that can follow. Each piece is a journey, both for me as the artist and for those who engage with it.
Ultimately, my goal is for my art to be more than just visual. I want it to spark an emotional connection, uplifting and energizing viewers in a way that mirrors the joy and positivity I strive to spread in everyday life. Knowing that a painting can brighten someone’s space, inspire reflection, or bring a moment of lightness is one of the greatest joys I could imagine. I’m excited to share my work at the upcoming 904 Art Pop Up November 2nd, connecting with fellow art lovers and offering pieces that bring color, movement, and positivity into their spaces.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisashineart?igsh=OWtwZnd6c2Mwanp3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/173WVyGPH1/
