ABSTRACT ARTIST

Ilana Poole

From Smyrna Beach, Florida | Based in Dallas, Texas

“I think creativity is one of the most potent forces on the planet, and I love to champion people towards it.

I long to see people take up all four corners of their space in the world, and I think when we explore our creativity, that starts to happen.

It can take on so many forms, and I love that; it’s unique to each of us and matters so much, but it’s such a war to keep going in it.”

What do you do / what is your primary creative expression?

My primary creative expression is abstract painting. My typical medium is acrylic paint and sometimes a bit of mixed media with oil pastels, pencils and guache.

How did you become an artist or begin in your craft?

I grew up in a creative family, so art making has always been a consistent thing in my world. However, I started giving it more focused attention when I moved to Nashville in 2014. Through some breakthrough moments with the Lord, I knew it was a very valuable part of my life that I wanted to give more space in that season.

Why do you create?

I create because I am a daughter of a creator. I know that can sound cliche, but it’s really true. Just how kids mimic their parents, I can feel a draw deep inside to be like Him in that way. It’s such a powerful display of heaven on earth when we tap into the creativity on the inside of us.

What is your creative process like and how does God meet you in that?

My creative process looks a lot like play. I usually carve out a chunk of time, three hours seems to be the sweet spot for me, and I just play. I let myself discover the painting, little by little, color by color it comes together. I try not to get hung up on the outcome; instead I lean into enjoying just being in that space. I feel like I can’t help but connect with God there; my mind and heart are open to Him, and there’s a stillness without other distractions. I can feel His delight when I paint, and that’s the joy of it.

What people group(s) or areas of industry has God called you to reach/impact?

I’m not totally sure, although I feel drawn to hang my art in places where people are weary - maybe hospitals or places where hearts need healing. One of my first art sales was for a counseling office, and that was a dream come true. Knowing someone could maybe glimpse some hopefulness in the midst of a hard place made my heart so happy.

What are you hoping for people to experience or see through your artistry?

I hope people feel permission towards childlikeness when they see my art; like they can let their shoulders down and have fun for a moment. I hope they feel delight and peace and the nearness of Jesus. I think art holds a bit of the way it was made and the heart behind it within it. So, I hope people experience the same delight I feel while making the art.