This month we are talking with Sandra Poliakov, the Budapest based artist who we were lucky to get to know a few years ago while working together on our collaborative knitwear collection. Her visual world reflects a tender appreciation for the small, fleeting moments of life, reminding us how simple and beautiful it can be. Now we can read about her story & get to know her a little better.
Who or what inspired you to pursue an art career?
Drawing has always been a way for me to support myself—emotionally, creatively, and later also professionally. I didn’t have the easiest childhood; as a child of immigrants, there were challenges, a lot of moving around, and I spent much of my time between two countries and households. But through all of that, drawing was my constant. It gave me a sense of stability, a way to process everything, and a space that felt like home.
Can you share an important moment in your life or career that shaped your artistic or entrepreneurial path?
I was born in Israel to a family of Bulgarian immigrants. I carry Bulgarian, Russian, Jewish, and Greek roots—and I feel like these layers of culture and memory shaped how I see the world.
My relationship with my husband taught me a lot about who I really am and what I value. Becoming a mother showed me another version of myself: as a woman, an artist, and also as someone running a business. That shift was big—it made everything more meaningful.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
I can’t say I’ve faced any major challenges in my career, but I did have a big breakthrough while I was pregnant with my daughter, Noa.
At the time, I was mostly working on commissioned pieces—branding, illustrations for marketing. I was good at it, but the constant communication and back-and-forth drained me. About halfway through my pregnancy, I decided to wrap up all my client projects and shift the focus inward.
I spent my days walking, meditating, and slowly creating the kind of art that had been sitting quietly inside me for a long time. I think people could feel that honesty, it resonated. And little by little, I was able to fully support myself through that work.
I truly believe that pregnancy and childbirth can bring about huge inner shifts. They hold the power to move us forward—not just as mothers, but as women.
Balancing business and motherhood can be challenging. How do you find that balance?
For me, one can’t exist without the other.
When I’m with my daughter, I often feel ideas bubbling up—I can’t wait to get back to work. And when I’m working, I sometimes feel like I’m too intense even for myself… that’s when being with her feels like the softest place to land. It’s a constant dance.
I know it might sound like there’s no time left just for me, but I do try to carve out quiet moments—to rest, to slow down. Good rest is essential, both for being a mom and for making art. Art needs reflection, space, inspiration. So does parenting.
Beyond your creative pursuits, what are your other passions and how do they influence your work?
My husband says I rest very passionately 
- and it’s true. I’d rather spend my time and money on a massage, long walk, a yoga class, or a trip than anything else.
I love cooking and learning about nutrition and health, and I’m endlessly fascinated by ancient art history. These passions find their way into my work, even if quietly—through colors, symbols, or simply the energy I carry into my studio.
Are there any women you consider role models?
There are many women who inspire me deeply. But I never really wanted to be like anyone. I’ve always wanted to be fully myself.
What advice do you have for women who are aspiring to make a mark in the art or business world?
Listen to yourself closely. Reflect, study, and interview your own thoughts to find your truth. Your authenticity is your power.
Describe your ideal creative space. What elements make it inspiring for you?
A sunlit space near nature, with fresh air and quiet. Books about art and history, little objects from my travels, fresh flowers, my favorite art supplies. It smells like tea. You can hear the birds, the sea, the wind moving through the leaves. That’s where I feel most open.
What’s your go-to comfort food when you need a pick-me-up?
I love all kinds of food! If I’m really tired, I’ll make a Bulgarian style sandwich my mom used to make me as a child, It’s a slice of bread with grated tomato and feta cheese crumbled on top and grilled a little in the oven.
Do you have a guilty pleasure TV show that you enjoy binge-watching?
Not really. I used to watch shows, but I realized I didn’t like the way it made me feel or how it affected my energy. I prefer silence, reading, or watching a movie intentionally.
f you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be?
There’s a small island in Thailand called Koh Jum that I often revisit in my mind. There’s nothing much there - just nature, a few bungalow-style hotels, one quiet village, and barely any internet. My husband and I went there about seven years ago. We’d meditate on the beach every morning, read, and do absolutely nothing. It felt like time stood still.
What’s your morning ritual that sets a positive tone for the day?
I try to wake up before everyone else and have my coffee alone while reading a book. If the house is still quiet, I’ll do some breathwork, neck stretches, and a short face massage. After I drop my daughter off at kindergarten, I try to squeeze in a quick workout. It helps me feel grounded and ready.
Most-used emoji:
Do you have an unexpected or quirky talent that people might not know about?
Oh I’m really good at cooking!
Is there something unusual or unexpected that you have in your wardrobe? What is your favorite piece of clothing and why?
This summer, my grandma gave me the wedding belt of her grandmother. It’s made from sturdy silk and completely hand-embroidered by her. I’d love to frame it. It feels like a piece of my heritage.
Could you describe your clothing style? What do you most like to wear?
In contrast to my art, my wardrobe is more muted. I love natural fabrics and flowy shapes. I enjoy balancing femininity and masculinity—playing with silhouettes, movement, and texture.
Which is your favorite OAT AVA piece? What are 3 words that first come to your mind about OAT AVA products?
Definitely the Desi sweater from our collaboration!
Three words: colorful, thoughtful, timeless.
Favorite movie:
Right now it’s “Perfect Days” by Wim Wenders
Country you haven't visited yet but would like to:
Ahh so many! But Japan and China
Superpower you'd like to have:
Teleportation
One thing you'd change in the World:
People living in peace and harmony with each other and the planet. No wars!
Three things you're very grateful for:
My family. Sun. Trusting myself.
