Sandra Song

Best known for her bold figurative paintings, the [Egyptian American “Artrepreneur”](https://www.cohart.com/u/marianmekhail) has a lot to say about issues like women’s empowerment, environmental waste, diversity, deification, and cultural preservation. Through 3D renderings of sports heroes like [LeBron James](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/14885) and 2D geometric abstractions of female figures influenced by her heritage, Mekhail's main goal is to see the beauty in everything, either through the use of hard-edge painting or reflective mediums, like shattered glass and diamond dust. And needless to say, both techniques are equally as attention-grabbing, which the Dallas-based artist proved by bringing three different collections to Cohart’s [Art Star Weekend](https://www.cohart.com/news/art-star-dallas-drop-launch) event. 

For Art Star Weekend though, Mekhail emphasized her own commitment to the Cohart’s values of diversity and democratization by bringing along some [limited-edition graphic tees](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/14925). Rendered in a style reminiscent of her paintings inspired by ancient Egyptian figurative art, the shirts contain a message about the power held by women of every skin tone, making it an exclusive must-own that’s only available through Cohart’s online [Art Stars Drop](https://www.cohart.com/drops/art-star-dallas-drop). So whether you want a shirt of your own or an opportunity to collect her depiction of [Mike Tyson](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/14882), check out [Mekhail’s drop](https://www.cohart.com/drops/art-star-dallas-drop) and learn more about her mission below. 

##### How was the All Stars Weekend, and the experience of interacting in-person with a community you’ve only talked to online?

The Cohart experience has been fantastic so far!  Such amazing energy from the group, prompt responses, very organized.  The event went fantastic.  I sold 2 pieces of original artwork and a handful of limited edition prints.  So this has been a very fruitful and beneficial partnership for the collectors, Cohart, and myself.

##### Is there something to be said about working within a community-first space like Cohart instead of through a big “e-commerce” site like Etsy? 

Absolutely!! Big e-commerce sites like Etsy make it very difficult to sell your work because you essentially have to pay for clicks to your page.  You only tend to succeed on Etsy by paying for it.  It's their way of getting you to pour money into your storefront to make them money, just in hope that you might make a little bit back.  Groups like Cohart put the collector, artist and community first.

##### How important would you say the community aspect is to the Cohart experience? And, on a related note, do you think it’s still important for platforms like Cohart to have a real-world presence?

Being able to engage with the community in a real-world presence is EXTREMELY important.  Because that's how you have a true read on your collector base.  That's how you discover what works truly resonate with your audience, and it allows them to meet the art and the artist.  To feel the energy of the art/artist and carry that home with them.  It's almost like matching with someone on a dating app.  Eventually you need to meet this match and see them in person to feel their essence.

##### What do you think the art world will look like in the next 5 to 10 years? Or has the digitization of art already sped up the pace of production and innovation?  

In the next 5 to 10 years, the art world will likely see an even greater integration of digital technology, with AI and blockchain playing significant roles in both the creation and distribution of art. While digitization has indeed sped up the pace of production and innovation, it also challenges traditional notions of authenticity and ownership, pushing artists to explore new mediums and methods to stand out in a rapidly evolving landscape.  As a purist, I believe that just as it has since the dawn of man, physical art will always prevail because ultimately we are physical beings living in a physical realm.  And no matter how technology evolves, we will always want a piece of physical art in our space.  Whether that be a piece we love and enjoy, or as an art investment.

##### Overall, where do you think the art world is headed? What do you think it’ll look like a decade from now? Or even the next few years?

The art world is heading towards a more interconnected and diverse future, driven by the fusion of traditional practices with digital innovation. In the next decade, we'll likely see a rise in virtual and augmented reality experiences, increased use of AI in art creation, and a stronger emphasis on sustainability and social impact. The boundaries between different art forms will continue to blur, and artists will have more platforms than ever to reach global audiences, making the art world more inclusive and dynamic.

##### What’s your advice for people who’re interested in art, but may be intimidated by the idea of the “art world”?

Don't be intimidated by the idea of the "art world"—art is for everyone, and your unique perspective is valuable. Start by exploring what genuinely interests you, whether visiting galleries, creating your own work, or connecting with local artists. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey and let your passion guide you.


##### Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I'd encourage everyone to support local artists instead of settling for mass-produced prints or cheap canvas prints from big retailers. When you purchase original art, you're not just buying a piece to hang on your wall—you're investing in the creative heartbeat of your community.  Your support sustains us, keeps our passion alive, and helps us reflect the unique stories and emotions of the society we all live in.

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Marian Mekhail has a gift for bringing depictions of powerful figures to life through works that glow beneath gallery lights. 

Dallas Art Star: Marian Mekhail's Bold Figurative Paintings Grab Attention

Marian Mekhail in front of "LeBron James"

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