Congratulations to artist Bina Neman, our latest ArtResin winner! Based in Los Angeles, Bina approaches everything she creates through the lens of art—from home-cooked meals and landscape design to outfit styling and crafting with her little ones: "Recently I've been creating what I call the 'Le Petite' and 'Le Grande' which are heart shape pieces made of wood. I paint it and add 'vegan butterflies' then coat the entire piece with resin."
Does where you're from or where you currently live influence your work?
Absolutely. Los Angeles is an art hub. Creativity pulses through this city. From street art, window displays, restaurant design, architecture and even a cup of an iced-matcha. I am surrounded by art in this city and constantly inspired.
What's your art background? Are you self-taught or did you study art?
As a child, my dream was to be a fashion designer, which later evolved into a passion for interior design. Although I was accepted into top design schools, I ultimately chose a different path that allowed me to combine my love for the arts with science. I attended the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry (USC), where I learned valuable concepts that seamlessly translate into my art; principles like value, chroma, and hue. Working in millimeters as a dentist has trained my eye to be fine tuned to all the small details (for better or worse!) The skills I learned during my implant course, I apply to every mounting mechanism I place behind my art pieces. The steps for restoring a cavitated tooth surprisingly parallels many of the same concepts I apply to sanding and sealing the surface of the wood.
Are you a full-time artist or do you create around work hours?
I definitely work at the most random of hours. If I get my kids to bed early, you’ll usually find me tucked away in my home studio (otherwise known as my garage). Sometimes I will be cutting out butterflies while I sit in a chair next to my kids while they play in the bath. It's an unconventional set-up, but I wouldn't trade it for anything!
What do you love about the mediums that you use in your work?
What I love most is the opportunity to appreciate mother nature every single time I look at the butterflies. I use high-resolution photos of real butterflies and I am just stunned at their beauty, every single time. I also love that I get to work with color, it just makes me happy!
How did you discover resin?
When I was pregnant with my first daughter, I felt inspired to create something special for her bedroom. During a visit to my local art store, I discovered resin and realized it could give my pieces a polished, refined look, making the butterflies appear as if they were preserved in time.
How has resin impacted your artwork?
Resin is my favorite step in the artistic process. It transforms the colors, making them vibrant and vivacious! I love watching the reactions at my 'Le Petite Workshops' when they see the instantaneous effect of the resin for themselves. Working with resin has also taught me to appreciate imperfections, which adds character to each piece, and is a theme I bring up at each workshop.
Can you provide a brief rundown of your process?
My process begins with sanding down the wood surface, sealing it, and painting. I then attach a hanging mechanism and select butterflies to create a captivating ‘dance.’ Once the butterflies are arranged, I seal the piece with resin, which brings everything to life.
Why do you want to make art? What motivates you to create?
Art is my outlet and my sanctuary. It allows me to connect with myself and serves as an escape from the hustle of motherhood and daily routines. Creating art helps me find balance and clarity amidst the chaos.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
Absolutely! My appreciation for the small things in life has deepened through my art. Working with intricate details allows me to notice the first blooms of spring, the beauty of a soaring butterfly, and the nuances of murals in my neighborhood. Art has a way of enhancing my awareness of the world around me.
What do you hope someone sees or feels when they look at your art?
Joy! The heart shape of my pieces symbolizes love, and I want that sentiment to resonate with everyone who sees my work. I love using butterflies in my work because they are a reminder of life's fleeting moments. Butterflies have diverse cultural meanings from love to the souls of the departed, which creates a deep connection with my audience. Aesthetically, they are vibrant, intricate and serve as a powerful motif that encapsulates the complexity of growth, resilience and the beauty of life's journey - and that is what I hope my audience feels when they look at my work.
How do you define success as an artist? What does that look and feel like for you?
To me, success as an artist means inspiring others. If my piece brightens up a room and brings joy to those who see it, then I’ve fulfilled my purpose.
What's your favorite resin tip you'd like to share with our readers?
Embrace the imperfections! Life is not perfect, and neither should your art be. Remember, it’s hand-made, not machine-made. Learning to appreciate the imperfections is a valuable skill that can be applied to every aspect of life.
Where do you sell your work?
Directly through my instagram @Theddsartist
Congratulations on your win, Bina!
To see more of Bina's art:
Follow her on Instagram: @Theddsartist
Every month, to celebrate our community of artists, ArtResin will send out a 32 oz kit to two lucky people who have shared the work they've created with ArtResin.
ArtResin: Celebrating 10 Years As The Original Epoxy For Resin Art!
