The homes of celebrities are often seen as showcases for the latest in design and art, and increasingly, that art is “livable” – meaning it’s not just for display, but integrated into daily life. Artists like Hannah Polskin are gaining recognition for creating pieces that blend fine art with functional design, attracting a clientele that includes stars like Pink, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Amy Schumer. This trend reflects a desire for more personal and grounding spaces, moving away from purely decorative aesthetics towards environments that foster a sense of calm and well-being.
Polskin’s work, characterized by freeform creations in wood and stone, isn’t about filling a space with objects, but about creating “vessels for feeling.” Her pieces, ranging from paintings and sculptures to murals and everyday décor, are designed to spark a response and emit a “grounding energy,” according to the artist. The appeal, it seems, lies in the ability of her art to feel both curated and welcoming, a balance many strive for in their own homes. The growing popularity of Hannah Polskin’s livable art speaks to a broader shift in how people are thinking about their living spaces.
A Lifelong Passion for Form and Feeling
Polskin’s artistic journey began early. “I’ve been making art for as long as I can remember,” she shared, adding that her mother recalls her drawing the same shapes as a child. This intuitive approach is central to her process. Rather than meticulously planning each piece, Polskin allows forms to emerge organically, revisiting favored “loops and curves” repeatedly. This allows for a natural evolution in her work, resulting in pieces that feel both familiar, and fresh.
Based in Los Angeles, California, Polskin’s work blends fine art and design, utilizing materials like wood and stone to create pieces that resonate with those who encounter them. She describes her creations as designed to feel as though they’ve “always belonged there,” emphasizing the importance of cohesion and personal connection. This philosophy extends to her own home, where much of her work originates – a reflection of her desire to live with pieces she genuinely loves.
Art as Ritual: Integrating Creativity into Everyday Life
Polskin’s designs aren’t confined to traditional art spaces. She actively seeks to integrate creativity into everyday routines, suggesting that art can enhance even the most mundane activities. She cites examples like her full-length mirrors, offering a glimpse of self as one moves through the day, and her Tissue Sculpture – a giant wooden egg that dispenses tissues – transforming a simple act into an artistic ritual. This approach underscores her belief that art should be accessible and interwoven with daily life, rather than reserved for special occasions or formal settings.
Advice for Artists and Collectors: Trust Your Instincts
For aspiring artists, Polskin offers simple yet profound advice: follow instinct over perfection. She emphasizes the importance of allowing one’s hand to roam freely, without attaching rigid expectations. Her own creative process is deeply inspired by curves, negative space, weight, and balance, often beginning with sketching sessions using leftover scraps of wood. This approach encourages experimentation and allows for unexpected discoveries.
Her guidance extends to collectors as well. Polskin stresses the importance of choosing pieces that genuinely resonate with you, emphasizing that the best collections feel personal. “It’s essential you really love the work, especially if you’re the one who will be looking at it every day,” she says. This sentiment highlights the emotional connection that should exist between an individual and the art they choose to surround themselves with.
A Growing List of High-Profile Clients
Polskin’s unique approach has garnered attention from a diverse range of clients, including singer Pink, actress Gwyneth Paltrow, comedian Amy Schumer, and musician Chlöe Bailey, alongside actress Emmanuelle Chriqui. This growing list of high-profile clients underscores the increasing demand for art that prioritizes emotional resonance and personal connection. The artist’s ability to create pieces that feel both sophisticated and inviting clearly appeals to those seeking to cultivate a more meaningful and harmonious living environment.
As interest in Polskin’s work continues to grow, she remains focused on her core principles: creating art that feels intuitive, grounding, and deeply personal. Her upcoming projects and continued exploration of form and material promise to further solidify her position as a leading voice in the world of livable art. Those interested in exploring her work can find more information and view her portfolio on her official website.
What do you think of the trend toward “livable art”? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with anyone who appreciates the power of art to transform a space.
