Name
Shana Rubin (Freeman)
Where do you live? (Town and/or neighborhood)
I live in West Orange.
When did you move there?
I moved to Montclair from the East Village in 2017, right before my youngest was born. Living in NOHO and the East Village was a dream for 13 years; however, it was time to leave. We wanted a town with easy access to NYC, with artsy and like-minded folk. Then, in 2022, I moved from Montclair to West Orange to be closer to my kids’ school.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Rego Park/Forest Hills, Queens and Westfield, NJ (although I don’t claim NJ)—ha.
How do you make a living? OR What is your everyday passion?
I am passionate about energy and how we are all connected throughout time and space. Natural patterns and organisms inspire my paintings and textile design. My pieces are texturally layered and use color and shape to express emotions and tell stories. Printmaking has also become a passion of mine— I sell my hand silk-screened clothing and textile designs at the Montclair boutique, Salt Aire. I have a studio at home and use the Charles Brand Press at the Montclair Art Museum and Summit Visual Arts Center. Lately, I have also been taking custom wallpaper and textile orders — my latest is designing wallpaper for a pool house. I recently had an exhibition at The SPACE in Montclair featuring my Ocean Series and previously exhibited at 150 Bay, The Heidi Gallery, and Over the Moon Art Gallery. See my work on IG at shanafreemanstudio.
Prior to children, I worked for 16 years as a psychotherapist and mental health clinician in NYC. I am also passionate about helping people who have endured trauma or injustice. How people alchemize their pain intrigues me.
One example: after my first son was born I saw a homeless pregnant woman on my corner in the East Village and needed to help her. One donation from the community became hundreds and NYC Mammas Give Back (501c3) was born and still running today. On 12/31 we celebrated 10 years ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange!
Coffee, tea, or … ?
I vacillate from coffee to tea depending on my mood. If I’m looking for a a bigger boost to start a busy day, I go for an almond milk latte. If I’m feeling more mellow, I love a cup of Earl Grey, preferably beside a fire. Either way, caffeine is a staple in starting my day!
What’s your idea of a perfect weekend day?
Relaxing/Nesting/Rooting with kids, girlfriend, and our rescue dogs Mellow and Hazel. A Soulcycle class or yoga class. A possible massage. Making art and allowing my boys to make their weird imaginative fun games.
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Samba is my ultimate favorite. It is gluten free and I have an affinity for the rich flavors of Brazilian cuisine. Also, sitting to eat at Samba, among lush live foliage, immediately transports me to another realm.
What’s on your nightstand?
My Charolette Tilbury Magic Serum, my Jewish star ring, tourmaline and opal stones , and a paintbrush/pad.
What are you listening to?
Big Thief, Goth Babe, Lucius
What are your current indulgences?
Korean Spa, Nature, boating on vacation, Soulcycle
What talent would you most like to have?
Shape shifter
What’s the worst-kept (or best-kept!) secret about your town?
West Orange is so centrally located, culturally diverse, and inhabits many artists and musicians. I love that.
What do you hope they say about you at your funeral?
Her children were lucky to have her as a mother.
She has the most beautiful patterns and textiles! So excited to see what else there is!