Meet Michelle Sakhai

We recently connected with Michelle Sakhai and have shared our conversation below.

Michelle , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

My optimism comes from my belief in the transformative power of art. Creativity has a healing force that can touch people on a deeply emotional and spiritual level. As an artist, I’ve witnessed how creating and experiencing art can inspire hope, bring clarity, and foster connection—not just for myself, but for others as well.

This belief is rooted in my own process. When I paint, I feel a sense of emotional transformation. Working with gold and silver leaf, for instance, reminds me that light can emerge from even the darkest places. That transformation on the canvas mirrors life, where challenges often lead to beauty and growth if we allow ourselves to stay open and positive. When life feels heavy, there’s beauty to be uncovered, just as there’s always a new canvas waiting for creation.

I also draw optimism from the way people respond to my work. When someone tells me that my art brought them peace or lifted their spirits, it’s a reminder of the incredible capacity we have to heal and inspire one another. For me, art is more than a creative practice—it’s a way to share light, hope, and healing in a way that transcends words.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I grew up immersed in the rich cultural traditions of my Japanese and Persian heritage, which deeply influenced my artistic journey. Art has always been my way of connecting to the world, exploring the beauty of light, and sharing it with others. I specialize in gold and silver leaf oil paintings, a medium I was drawn to for its ability to create radiant, transformative works that evoke light, hope, and spiritual connection.

What I find most exciting and special about painting is its ability to heal and transcend boundaries—whether cultural, emotional, or even spiritual. For me, painting is a meditative process where I can channel light and energy onto the canvas. It’s deeply personal yet universal, as it allows others to see reflections of their own journeys in the work. That connection between the artist, the art, and the viewer is something I cherish deeply.

In addition to my paintings, I’ve also extended my creativity into everyday items that can inspire joy and beauty in people’s lives. I’ve created a collection of limited-edition greeting cards and umbrellas that feature my floral series, as well as my book, Awakening, which delves into my artistic philosophy and journey. All of these can be purchased directly from my website or at select museum gift shops.

Through my work, my hope is to bring light and inspiration into the lives of others, no matter the medium.

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?

Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as an artist are resilience, curiosity, and authenticity.

1. Resilience:
The path of an artist can be filled with challenges—self-doubt, rejection, or even just the discipline required to stay consistent. Resilience allowed me to keep moving forward, even when the road was difficult. To cultivate resilience, I advise embracing failures as part of the process and staying committed to your vision. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your journey, and remember that every setback is an opportunity to grow.

2. Curiosity:
Curiosity has driven me to constantly explore new techniques, materials, and inspirations. It’s what led me to work with gold and silver leaf and to create pieces that go beyond traditional boundaries. For those starting out, stay open to experimentation and never stop learning—whether it’s studying art history, exploring other cultures, or trying new mediums. Your curiosity will help you evolve and keep your work fresh.

3. Authenticity:
Being authentic has been key to creating work that feels meaningful and true to who I am. My art reflects my heritage, spirituality, and personal experiences, and I believe that connection resonates with others. To develop authenticity, spend time reflecting on what inspires you deeply. Let your work come from your heart rather than trying to follow trends. The more you honor your own voice, the more impactful your work will become.

Advice for Early Journeys:
Start with small, consistent steps, and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Invest in building your skills, but also take time to connect with yourself—your passions, values, and story. Be patient with the process and allow your path to unfold naturally.

Finally, never underestimate the power of community. Seek mentors, peers, and spaces where you can share your work, receive feedback, and find inspiration. Growth often happens when we open ourselves up to others.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to nurture my creativity and support my passion for art from a very young age. Growing up in a multicultural household with Japanese and Persian influences, they surrounded me with beauty, tradition, and an appreciation for craftsmanship. They encouraged me to explore my interests freely and never imposed limitations on what I could achieve.

They also enriched my perspective by exposing me to the world. Every summer, they took me to Japan, where I could immerse myself in my cultural heritage, but they didn’t stop there—they took me around the globe. Experiencing the art, architecture, and traditions of different countries broadened my understanding of the world and instilled in me a deep appreciation for the universal language of beauty and creativity. Those travels profoundly shaped my artistic vision and taught me to see connections across cultures.

My parents also instilled in me the value of perseverance and authenticity. Watching them honor their cultural roots while navigating life with grace taught me to embrace my unique perspective and channel it into my art. Their unwavering belief in me gave me the confidence to pursue my path as an artist, even when it felt unconventional.

Perhaps most importantly, they led by example, showing me that true fulfillment comes from living a life of purpose and passion. Their guidance and generosity have left an indelible mark on both my life and my art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.michellesakhai.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellesakhaiart/?hl=en