Honoring femininity, purity, and the culture that surrounds her, Cindy Shaoul’s work has adorned the walls of hundreds of spaces worldwide. Known for her Heart’s collection and murals of the quaint New York streets, she has infused impressionism with her own voice and style. Her ability to curate bright colors and implement movement in each of her pieces is why her work is unforgettable and versatile. Her pieces can be found on 1stDibs and have been featured in Vanity Fair, Luxe Magazine, and now aspire design and home. Introducing this week’s Maker Monday, Cindy Shaoul.
Featured above is Anne Hathaway’s silhouette in Paris, France. The fluidity and choice of colors exuding from this painting reflect the poise and sophistication of both the subject and the creator.
Andrew Joseph: What was your first job?
Cindy Shaoul: An ice cream server. I loved it because I love being around people and getting to know new faces. The colors of the ice cream always inspired me too, even though I wasn’t a practicing artist yet, I still remember enjoying watching the swirls and the designs they made in the freezer. Not to mention, all the free ice cream I could eat!
Andrew: What’s your current TV obsession?
Cindy: Emily in Paris. I love Paris, and the sights, so being able to observe all of the amazing cinematography is magical. I got inspired from one shot of Emily and Mindy chatting at the Cafe. I painted the scene “Hold the Preserves” and it got noticed by Ashley Park and Lily Collins, the actresses in the painting, so I feel honored that they love my work. The piece is now part of Ashley’s private collection.
This piece is called “Brunch on Tartine,” capturing a scene in Soho, NY. This limited edition print carries bold tones and fast brush techniques throughout.
Andrew: Secret talent?
Cindy: Singing. I used to be in 3 different bands before realizing my passion as a full-time artist. We recorded some really fun tracks and I still listen to one of my favorites, “Breaking Down” with my 4-year-old (my biggest fan). She loves to sing along to it almost every day.
Andrew: What’s the best thing that happened to you this month?
Cindy: I had the largest Dripping Dots commission piece I’ve ever worked on installed! And when I saw it in its home, and the joy it brought my clients, it made me so happy. It helped me better understand my mission of bringing joy to people through my art. It’s truly a blessing and what propels me every day.
Andrew: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
Cindy: My dream project would be to paint a mural in a public setting. I started ‘Plein Air Street Scenes’ in 2009, where I set up my easel and paint near one of my favorite places in New York – quintessential locations such as Alice’s Tea Cup, Cafe Cluny, and Tartine. I love the energy of painting outdoors and around the public, meeting interesting people that love art, and the unexpected happiness it brings passersby. Therefore, to be commissioned a mural outside would be a total dream of mine.
“My Heart Rocks” is part of Shaoul’s ongoing “My Heart Collection,” which is inspired by the vibrant and energetic properties that encapsulate love.
Andrew: Has there been a shift in what clients are requesting post-COVID?
Cindy: I’ve received more interest in my ‘Plein Air Street Scenes’ of figures seated, having brunch outside. I think it brings a piece of nostalgia right home.
Andrew: Favorite piece of clothing you own?
Cindy: My jean jacket since versatility matters most to me. I could wear the same jacket while working in my studio, out to my favorite restaurant, or off the shoulders of course. I also just started a limited collection of “My Heart” jean jackets that I will be releasing this fall. I’m really excited about it!
Andrew: If you had one more hour in the day what would you do with it?
Cindy: Spend quality time with the people I love.
About The Maker | Inspired by whimsey and purity of the feminine form, Cindy Shaoul is known for her impressionistic and abstract style. She is best recognized for her series ‘Brides’, ‘Dripping Dots’ and ‘Hearts’, as well as her ‘Plein-Air’ street scenes of quintessential New York locations. Shaoul’s works can be found in hundreds of private and corporate collections worldwide.
Since her first group show at Parsons School of Design in 2009, her work has been showcased internationally – from Italy to South Korea – and has been shown at various art fairs nationwide including Miami, Palm Beach, Dallas, and New York. Shaoul has had numerous solo exhibitions and has garnered the attention of notable celebrities such as Emma Roberts, Lily Collins, Ashley Park, Catherine Deneuve and John Malkovich.
Her studio is a vibrant and exciting place that is ever-changing with art pieces, tables lined with oil paint tubes, backgrounds for hearts, and new and worked-on canvases that line the walls. In 2011 she began her journey as a singer and songwriter creating music alongside painting. She lives and works in New York.
Andrew Joseph is a regular contributing editor for aspire design and home magazine. See more of his work here.
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