Interview of Ava of Exquisite Paradox by Freya Bennett
Ava is an illustrator and designer based on California’s Central Coast whose work feels like a deep breath. Soft, nostalgic, quietly grounding and oh so cute. Through her practice, Exquisite Paradox, she creates art that resists the noise of the algorithm in favour of intuition, reflection, and genuine connection. Blending vintage charm with contemporary clarity, Ava’s work invites viewers into slower, more mindful worlds, ones that feel hand-crafted, comforting, and deeply human. I spoke to her about authenticity, creativity without expectation, and making art that feels like a soft place to land.
Hi Ava, tell us a bit about yourself and your art practice!
I’m a self-taught illustrator and designer based on California’s Central Coast. I began Exquisite Paradox in 2019 after dropping out of college, at a moment when I needed to create without expectation or outcome. What started as an outlet for myself has since grown into a fulfilling career and a constantly evolving practice.
My creative vision often begins as a personal safe haven from the noise of daily life. Over time, I have seen how my instinct towards retreat and reflection resonates with others as well, and it’s so meaningful to me that I can offer moments of mindfulness, comfort, or connection to viewers of my art. I’m drawn to themes of nostalgia and an appreciation of nature, and I use elements of these inspirations to help me communicate the messages I feel called to share.
When I was reading about you, I really loved your line, “connecting with audiences in a way that feels authentic (not algorithmic).” How do you nurture that authenticity in an online world that constantly pushes creators toward performance?
Beginning my career as what you might call an “Instagram artist” meant that metrics and output were part of the job from the start. I’ve had to learn how to separate the business of making art from the act of making it, because creativity depends on playfulness and staying present, which is nearly impossible to maintain when preoccupied with results.
Before I begin a piece, I try to pause and identify what’s really behind it. If the answer has more to do with engagement than my intuition, I know I haven’t reached the real idea yet. When the inspiration comes from a true feeling that wants to be articulated, the work begins to feel aligned with my vision. I’ve learned to trust that kind of honesty to find its way to the right people, and that the depth of connection matters more to me than the number of views.
What kind of connection do you hope people feel when they see your art?
I hope my art feels like a soft place to land or to take a deep breath, away from whatever’s going on in your day. If someone sees my work and feels understood, comforted, or momentarily transported to a more playful world, that’s fulfilling for me. It’s especially meaningful when the work becomes a point of connection that reminds people to notice and care for the relationships they value most.
How do you balance running a small, independent creative business with staying true to your artistic vision?
I try to let my values lead before trends or expectations do, even when that means slower growth or fewer releases. I’ve learned that when I prioritize perception over intention, the work eventually loses its energy, and so do I. I remind myself often that sustainability includes emotional and creative wellbeing, not just productivity.
What has been your favourite project you’ve created so far?
I have a soft spot for my collection with CASETiFY. I love when I get to create pieces that are so woven into everyday life, and I’ve treated my phone case designs like little portals to more magical worlds that you get to carry around in your pocket all day. Using my art to transform something practical into a small source of joy feels natural and meaningful to me.
Your artwork feels so nostalgic, what drew you to create vintage pieces?
I’ve always been drawn to past eras that feel more grounded and tactile, before everything became so polished and optimized for efficiency. As creativity becomes increasingly automated and detached from the hand, it feels more necessary to me to make work that connects me to a slower way of living, and that keeps me in touch with my inner child. When I imagine the kind of art I want to live with over the years, I want it to feel whimsical, yes, but also hand-crafted and enduring, something that feels timeless on the wall.
Where do you create your work and how do you stay inspired?
I work most days from my small, cozy home studio, usually with my orange cat, Louie, nearby. However, my best ideas tend to come when I’m away from screens and appreciating nature, in patterns that surface while journaling, or through some odd, charming relic I come across while vintage shopping.
What’s your go to snack when you’re creating?
Aside from a bottomless mug of coffee, I love a well-assembled yogurt bowl with plenty of toppings to get me through a long studio day.
If you had to give an up and coming artist advice in 5 words or less, what would it be?
Make what you need.
