Interviews
Shifting Energies Through Art: Irene Hoff’s Inspirational Journey
August 16, 2024
“I hope my art helps people connect with their amazing, beautiful souls, which they are at their core, even if they cannot always see it.” – Irene Hoff
We sat down with Irene Hoff, a talented mixed media artist and healer from Holland, who has called Bali home for the past 13 years. Irene shares how Bali’s natural beauty and vibrant culture inspire her art, which she describes as an expression of energy. In this interview, we explore her unique creative process, the role of feminine energy in her work, her role as an energy shifter, and her vision for using art to elevate humanity.
This is Irene Hoff.
How does it impact you and your art? How long have you been here? What does it mean to you to live here?
Bali is hard to describe. I’ve been living here for over 13 years, and it has brought me back to myself. I never quite fit into the Western world. Here, you’re always connected with nature and everything around you. Their beautiful religion, with many ceremonies called Upacara, fosters community and mindfulness. Even though Bali is busy and buzzing, this energy persists. If you don’t connect and give to Bali, it will push you out. Bali has a strong character—if there’s karma you need to handle, you have to be here.
What kind of art do you create? Talk about the mediums, sizes, and materials you use.
I love creating big pieces that make an impact. Even if someone says their wall isn’t big enough, I believe it only takes one substantial piece to make a statement. For me, art is energy. My art is filled with little surprises, like a wink here or a joke there, and a lot of feminine energy, which I feel is lacking in the world. I work with acrylics, printed patterns, and special paper that I tear and paste onto the canvas. I also love working with thicker layers of paint by mixing it with glue and applying it with a small cut in a plastic bag, similar to decorating a cake.
What does art mean to you?
Art, for me, is a way to transfer energy. It’s difficult for most artists to put their message into words, and I’m no different. I prefer to let my art speak to the viewer personally. I ask people to open their hearts and see what the art does for them. The message you receive today might be different from the one you get tomorrow, depending on where you are in life. When I started as an artist, I didn’t think of it this way, but now, it’s the biggest reason I do what I do. The only direction I give is through the title of the piece; the rest is up to the viewer. Sometimes, the impact of the art hits weeks later. It’s more powerful than people realize, and it does not need to be in the moment. Sometimes, it can be 1 or 2 weeks later that you suddenly remember something. I think it’s more powerful than people realize.
How does your work as a psychic and healer influence your art?
We all have deep programs ingrained in us. When we’re born, we’re connected to where we came from, but over time, society and parents impose beliefs that may not serve us. I compare it to wearing a life jacket—you can swim and dive, but you can’t dive deep with it on. It’s time to take off the safety vest because it’s no longer needed. Life is about discovering and letting go of those blocks, which often involves tears and crises—the mud where the lotus grows. These are opportunities to release the heavy stuff weighing us down. I’m not a healer; I facilitate healing. I help shift energy for people when they are ready.
Do you believe your art inspires people?
Yes, I think it does. I don’t say this out of ego, but based on feedback. My art has touched people deeply. I hope it encourages them to connect with their amazing, beautiful soul, to see the talent they possess, and to bring that into the world.
What is your biggest source of inspiration?
My biggest source of inspiration is myself. I arrived in Bali alone, divorced, and sad, with two young daughters. The only way was through, so I faced it. I had to start my life anew, and now, looking back, I’m proud of the person who did that. It’s not about achieving something; it’s about working through the tough stuff to become who you are. From who I am today, I can share my wisdom, inspire others, and touch people’s hearts. I’m grateful for the journey that brought me here.
What does copyright and licensing mean to you?
I think we’ve been too rigid around it. I don’t want to be like Van Gogh, who only became famous after his death. I have so much inspiration and am constantly creating, so why not sell some rights to a matching brand? I want my art to travel, and the broader the reach, the more I can touch people’s hearts.
Can you summarize your experience in the art industry into a single nugget of advice?
My advice for aspiring artists: Just do you. Don’t let others’ opinions affect you. Focus on your inspiration, your work, and what makes you happy. Meditate daily, even if it’s just for ten minutes, to open your heart to creativity. Creativity comes from within—you connect to it. When you’re starting out, say yes to opportunities, even if they’re a lot of work. As you mature, you’ll learn when to say no.
Ultimately, Irene’s art is more than just visual; it’s a way to share energy and personal messages. Her pieces, filled with feminine energy and playful details, invite us to look deeper and connect with what truly matters. Irene’s journey of overcoming personal challenges shines through in her work, aiming to inspire and uplift those who experience it. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of art. Irene’s advice to aspiring artists is simple: “Just do you.” She encourages authenticity and perseverance, reminding us that true creativity comes from within. Irene Hoff’s art doesn’t just decorate spaces—it touches lives. Her work is a beautiful reminder that through creativity and authenticity, we can all find a little more magic in our lives.
If you enjoyed this blog and want to read more like it or join the Seminal network, visit our website for more insightful content and updates. To see more incredible art from Irene Hoff, follow her work on Instagram @art_irenehoff. Click the links below to join our community and stay connected with Irene’s powerful art!
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