Meet Elena Roznovan | Artist, Educator & Mother

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elena Roznovan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elena, what principle do you value most?
In my opinion authenticity is a very important value. Although it may sound simple, achieving true authenticity requires continuous introspection, vulnerability, and courage to live in alignment with one’s values, beliefs, and inner truth—even in the face of societal expectations or external pressures.

Authenticity fosters genuine connections with others because it creates space for honesty and trust. It also allows for greater personal fulfillment, as living authentically aligns your actions with your core identity, reducing inner conflict.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art stems from deeply personal yet universal themes, particularly the cultural and societal constructs of motherhood. I explore the contradictions inherent in this role—its profound significance and its societal subjugation—and how these contradictions shape the identity and agency of mothers. What sets my work apart is the way I juxtapose contrasting materials and ideas, creating a visceral tension that challenges viewers to rethink preconceived notions about mothering and femininity.

For instance, I incorporate tender motherhood imagery alongside materials like concrete or leather, juxtaposing softness with harshness. I might use objects like breast pumps or baby bottles but integrate them into BDSM-inspired frameworks, blending the mundane and the provocative to question the commodification and control of female bodies.

What I’m most proud of:
I’m proud of my ability to open conversations about often-overlooked aspects of motherhood, especially its more raw, vulnerable, or conflicting dimensions. These are experiences many can relate to but rarely see represented authentically in art.

How I got here:
My path hasn’t been easy. Like many artists, I’ve faced challenges in balancing creative work with the demands of everyday life, particularly as a mother. Early in my career, I often felt pressure to conform to more commercially viable art forms. Overcoming this required me to embrace my authentic voice, even if it meant taking risks or facing criticism.

Lessons I learned:
I’ve learned to give myself grace and embrace the process. Balancing experimental creativity with the weight of controversial themes can be a delicate dance, but it is also what makes my art authentic to me. I know that if what I make resonates with me, it has to resonate with an audience out-there as well.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them hiking on the Bridge to Nowhere Trailhead in the San Gabriel Mountains (there is a bungee jumping option at the end of the hike). Grab a pastry and coffee later at Penny Roasters in Glendora. For lunch go to Plaza Produce Deli and after shop at a local thrift store, New Unto Others. The next day, I would explore Highland Park/Eagle Rock. Grab coffee at Kumquat and eat lunch at Joy in Highland Park. See a marionette show at Bob Baker Marionette theater. Maybe spend the afternoon shopping for records at Gimme Gimme Records or Arroyo Records. In the evening grab a drink at Highland Park Bowl or La Cuevita. The next day, hang out at the Last Book Store in DTLA. After, go see shows at Human Resources, Commonwealth and Council, Hannah Hoffman Gallery, Gatopardo, Phase Gallery etc. If on the west side of LA, visit Long Play Contemporary, Chris Sharp Gallery, Tanya Leighton etc. Maybe spend an evening greeting the sunset at Venice Beach.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
For me, the person who gives me courage to continue my art practice regardless of the challenges life throws at me is my husband, Odeh Amarin. He has helped me in so many ways over the years, from giving me profound advice to helping me install and document my work. He has been by my side through it all, and I am so grateful to him.

Instagram: @eroznovan