how an artist interview changed my perspective on art
A few months ago, I found myself endlessly refreshing the LinkedIn job section, hoping for a glimmer of opportunity in an otherwise bleak market. On what felt like the umpteenth page reload, a listing for a visual arts copywriter caught my eye. Without hesitation—and before the application counter could skyrocket past 100+—I threw my hat in the ring. Then, with little optimism in this cutthroat job market, I moved on, scrolling and applying.
Days passed, and the memory of that application faded into the haze of forgotten attempts. That is, until an unexpected email popped up, inviting me to a video call interview. Fast-forward two weeks, and there I was—employed at what I now call my first “big girl” job. The catch? It was in a niche I’d never particularly cared about.
At first, it felt like a role made of beige walls and monotony. That changed the moment I was invited to pitch stories. Scanning through art gallery listings, I felt underwhelmed by the usual parade of contemporary pieces that resembled melted crayons or glorified second-grade projects.
Then, something remarkable happened. As I scrolled, my eyes landed on an exhibition near my hometown. The collection featured stunning paintings created with acrylic and oil ink on canvas, each piece portraying unique interpretations of the feminine form. For the first time, I began to understand how art could speak directly to the soul. Up until then, I’d only ever felt that connection in the whimsical illustrations of Studio Ghibli films.
But this was different. The exhibition, titled Cosmic Dance by Mobina Nouri, was inspired by the poet Rumi, with intricate lines and vibrant details that seemed to swirl with spiritual energy. Each painting celebrated themes like enlightenment, euphoria, fertility, and inspiration. What truly brought the experience to life for me, though, was hearing directly from the artist. In an email response to my interview questions, Nouri shared the emotions and processes behind her work. Her words gave me a window into her world, and through it, I began to feel something I never had before: a profound emotional connection to a piece of art.
I’ve always been the type to admire art from a safe distance—appreciating its beauty but feeling no deeper resonance. This time, it was different. Understanding the story, the intentions, and the emotions behind each brushstroke transformed my experience. What I once viewed as a pretty picture became something much greater: a doorway to overwhelming positivity, insight, and connection. It changed how I see art—and how I see myself in relation to it.
Since then, my days as a visual arts copywriter have been nothing short of exhilarating. Each interview deepens my appreciation for the stories behind the art, and I’ve even found myself learning to admire all kinds of work—including the goopy abstract pieces I once dismissed. But above all, I have Mobina Nouri to thank for opening my eyes. Her profound artistry and perspective have forever changed the way I view creativity, connection, and the boundless potential of art to speak to the soul.