For all its little issues, Instagram is a wonderful space to find inspiration and beauty. When I came across the Tel Aviv based fashion illustrator and artist Shay Ben Izhack’s collaboration with LoveShackFancy, I was instantly smitten with her feminine and whimsical style. Her work features fashion and film references as well as flowers and nature, and is just downright beautiful. There’s a whimsy and joy that naturally emanates from her pieces as well. I’m fortunate enough to have two of her gorgeous pieces in my home and they have brought such happiness to our family since hanging them in our dining room. I’ve also been so fortunate to connect with Shay and have been touched by her kindness and warmth. It’s such a pleasure and privilege to share her and her beautiful artwork through this interview that she graciously consented too. For those interested in scooping up a piece of her work, you can do so through her website {here}. Shay also creates custom works in addition to her Original and Limited Edition prints. She has graciously offered free shipping for everything on her site (excluding the hot air balloon) for purchases over 400₪ (around $145 CAD).
1. What inspired you to start creating art and fashion illustrations?
I always loved drawing and illustrating, and always made art as a hobby for me and my friends.
From a young age, I was always interested in the arts and fashion. I had a dreamed of becoming a fashion designer and even majored in the history of art in high school. As I grew up, I learned that I love the illustration process better than the design process. Only after my university degree in biology and becoming a mother did I decide to take my passion into action to become an independent artist.
2. Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Inspiration is everywhere. I’m inspired the most when I’m travelling, mostly to NYC and Paris. I love looking at old fashion magazines and new fashion shows. I also love strolling around the city watching store windows or enjoying the countryside. This days I feel inspired by Disney classic movies.
3. Who are some of your favourite artistic influences?
There are many talented artists who I admire. One of them is Blair Williams (@blairz). I just love her unique style, strong brush strokes and authenticity.
I also love Victoria Park (@victoriarosepark) who has an amazing abstract art style which she combines beautifully with realistic style.
4. Who are some of your favourite fashion influences?
I love classic feminine styles, sometimes sporty elegant. My fashion icon is actually Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl, and in real life Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales.
5. What are some of your favourite projects you’ve worked on?
My first project as an artist was with a big jewellery company, Padani, who represents CHANEL in Israel and abroad. It was the launch of the Coco Crush Jewellery Collection and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to create live fashion illustrations for CHANEL and Padani. At this point I understood that If they liked my work that’s my sign to thrive.
Since than I’ve worked with incredible brands such as Jo Malone London, LoveShackFancy, &otherstories and more. For each brand I have worked on a different type of art and I enjoy that very much.
6. Who would be a dream client or project that you would love to work on or with?
I would love to collaborate with any incredible brand for fashion week and make some great artistic project together. I have so many ideas. Starts with live fashion illustration and even creating art for the show. That would be an absolute dream come true.
If I could name one client in particular that I would love to work with, that would be Dior.
