Meet Karla Kantorovich

We recently connected with Karla Kantorovich and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Karla, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
The journey to finding my purpose has been deeply intertwined with questions of healing, transformation, and narrative. These existential inquiries, both personal and universal, have led me to a profound realization: art is the vessel through which I’ve discovered answers. Art, to me, is not merely a creative outlet; it’s a conduit for spiritual connection and healing. It emerges from moments of inspiration, rooted in the depths of the soul. Engaging in artistic expression brings me into alignment with my innermost self, facilitating a profound sense of healing and restoration.
Through my own artistic journey, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of art firsthand. It has the remarkable ability to transcend boundaries, bridging gaps between individuals and cultures. Art serves as a universal language, capable of conveying emotions, stories, and experiences that resonate across diverse backgrounds.
This belief in the healing potential of art is what drives me to not only create but also to teach. In my role as an art instructor, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact that artistic expression can have on lives. Whether through painting, sculpture, or any other medium, art has the capacity to ignite sparks of inspiration, instill confidence, and foster personal growth.
By sharing my passion for art and facilitating creative exploration, I aim to empower others to discover their own paths to healing and transformation. Through artistic practice, individuals can rewrite their narratives, reclaiming agency over their lives and contributing to a more compassionate and understanding world.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a mixed-media artist from Mexico City, currently based in Miami, FL. Through my art, I emphasize the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing the evolving narratives that shape our collective origins. Drawing inspiration from my multicultural background, I aim to create narratives that inspire self-discovery and foster acceptance, valuing the richness each culture brings to our community. Using a variety of materials, including fabric, thread, found objects, and elements from nature, I weave together colors, textures, and shadows to form cohesive pieces reflecting the interconnectedness of our experiences. Each piece explores the fragility of our world and the importance of honoring our history while being mindful of the environment we inhabit today. By celebrating these perspectives, I hope to strengthen bonds within family and community, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation. Currently, I am thrilled to present my latest solo exhibition, “BECAUSE YOU LIVED,” which delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of the human spirit. Through this exhibition, I invite audiences to embark on a journey of introspection and discovery, celebrating the indomitable resilience of the human soul.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve identified three crucial qualities that have shaped my path: self-love, connection with our true selves, and respect and tolerance for others. Firstly, I’ve learned that self-love is foundational to healing and self-discovery. It serves as the cornerstone for establishing a deep connection with our authentic selves. My advice to those beginning their journey is to prioritize self-love. This involves nurturing a compassionate relationship with oneself, embracing one’s strengths and flaws alike, and practicing self-care and acceptance.
Secondly, fostering a profound connection with our true selves is essential. This connection serves as a catalyst for genuine creativity and expression. By delving into our innermost thoughts, desires, and beliefs, we unlock the authentic voice within us, enabling us to create with honesty and authenticity. My suggestion for those starting out is to engage in practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or journaling to cultivate this connection.
Lastly, I emphasize the importance of respect and tolerance for others. Acknowledging and honoring the diversity of perspectives, cultures, and experiences enriches our collective journey. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, we cultivate empathy, foster collaboration, and build stronger, more inclusive communities. To individuals at the beginning of their journey, I recommend actively seeking out opportunities to engage with diverse perspectives, challenging biases, and practicing empathy and kindness in all interactions.
Additionally, honoring our roots is an integral aspect of this journey. By recognizing and embracing our cultural heritage, we gain insight into our identities and histories, grounding us in a sense of belonging and connection. This understanding fosters appreciation for the richness of our collective tapestry and informs our actions as we navigate the world.
In summary, cultivating self-love, deepening our connection with our true selves, and embracing respect and tolerance for others are foundational elements of our personal and collective growth journey. By prioritizing these qualities, individuals can navigate their paths with authenticity, empathy, and purpose.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
In embracing my Jewish heritage, I’ve encountered a profound challenge amid the resurgence of antisemitism. This unsettling reality has compelled me to confront the intergenerational trauma inherited from my grandmother, Fanny Wasserman. Fanny’s story, woven into the fabric of my being, embodies resilience amidst unimaginable adversity. Her journey from Janow Lubelski, Poland, to Mexico, escaping the Holocaust’s grasp, is a testament to courage and survival. Yet, her silence about the horrors endured underscores the burden carried by survivors, leaving a legacy of unspoken pain.
Through “Because You Lived,” I endeavor to give voice to Fanny’s silenced narrative and honor her memory. This exhibition serves as a beacon of remembrance, confronting the harsh realities of obliterated lives while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
As we navigate the shadows of history and confront present-day antisemitism, “Because You Lived” urges us to combat prejudice and discrimination. It calls for awareness of both historical struggles and ongoing challenges, fostering a narrative of tolerance, unity, and hope.
While darkness may persist, I believe our collective light shines brightest in the embrace of acceptance, unity, and love—a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and our shared humanity.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
My portrait Sonya Revell all the other Frank Casale

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