NOEMI SAFIR —
“Sometimes, in the mornings, when I sit in my balcony enjoying the rays of the sun, I feel that I live in a dream. I realize that I am doing now what I love, what I have always loved, that I live at my own pace and according to my own worldview, that I am happy and full, at last.
Once, in another life, I did not even dare to dream. I became 'practical' very quickly in order to survive and to please others. No one supported me, no one believed in me. I was born in Uruguay in January, 1971. At the age of two, I immigrated with my parents to Israel. I grew up in a strict, rigid house. I assume that the absorption process in Israel was not simple for my parents and the desire to protect me and my little sister and create a good life for us was stronger than anything. I always knew that I want to paint, that I want to fly high and not compromise. I did not understand why I wasn’t allowed to pursue my dream.
Over time, I simply gave up and even made some huge steps in the opposite direction. I completed two degrees at Tel Aviv University in mathematics and computer science & business admin. I served 5 years in the army. I married and had two daughters. I worked as a project manager for high-tech companies. I completed interior design studies and worked in architectural firms. I was a disciplined daughter, spouse, full-time mother and a professional in everything I did. I searched for confrimation from others. I did not realize yet that this should come from within. When I finally dared to look inside, the change began.
Around the age of 40 I turned back to paint. I found myself excited and radiating when I was talking to people about my art. I became impatient with anything that had nothing to do with painting. No one around me understood. I was again in that place where everyone thought I was an irresponsible dreamer who thinks only of herself. But this time there was a very big difference. This time I did not giveup. Something in me changed forever. I chose to part almost completely from the life I knew and fulfill my dream of a long time ago, to paint. The beginning was challenging, I had to find ways that were right for me and for my daughters while raising my new and exciting baby. I fought for my identity as a painter. I didn’t let any obstacle stand in my way. I never looked back again.
Today, the ability to inspire someone else through my art, to feel excitement and bring joyfulcolors to their home and heart gives me great happiness and satisfaction. Looking back I suppose that the desire to be seen and understood as I am, had a great influence on my way.
I love to paint urban landscapes and figures, especially women, in the form of large scale paintings. Most of the women figures are a reflection of myself that depict scenes from my life that led me to where I am today, conveying power and desire and having a wide range of emotions. They embody my struggle to accept my own independence as a woman, as an artist, without any apologies or doubts. I have participated in a number of important exhibitions worldwide including New York, Miami, San Francisco, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea, Germany, Paris, Holland, Australia, Monaco and Israel. I also participated in charity auctions and fundraising events at Christie’s in aid of ADETEC-CŒUR, Israeli fundraising in aid of Aids, Art sale-Donation for Israeli hospital etc.” -Noemi Safir
Partner Gallery: Curate International