Ez Naive is the virtual identity of Elli Zogia, a Greek artist based in Vancouver, where she creates on the traditional, unceded, and ancestral lands of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

Elli's work explores rich themes of intersectionality and magical realism, balancing activism with escapism. With a focus on social justice, queerness, and sexuality, she invites viewers to reflect on their own narratives through her art.

Drawing inspiration from raw emotion and folk art, Elli enjoys playing with texture and symbolism in her figurative illustrations. While most of her work is digital, she values traditional techniques, particularly the art of lino cutting, and incorporates tactile qualities into her creations.

Through Ez Naive, Elli aims to provoke thought and spark meaningful conversations, using visual storytelling to connect with others.

Interview with Elli about the showcase:

“La Petite Mort” is a striking title - what inspired this concept, and how do you translate such a profound idea into visual art?
The idea of “La Petite Mort” was inspired by how we try to make sense of how we experience life in our bodies. How to translate a feeling as big as an orgasm, which is what the expression “little death” means in French, into visual art.

Your work often incorporates nature and symbolic elements. What draws you to blend the natural world with figurative and sometimes occult imagery?
My art definitely has a lot of nature symbolism intertwined with figurative art and sometimes occult symbols. I think it’s because the basic message of my art is our interconnectedness. Sometimes as humans we see ourselves so separate from nature when in reality we are part of it — with all its ugly and beautiful. The more we witness, see, and realize that, the better we all coexist. The more fulfilled we become.

Many of your pieces mix surreal and everyday imagery. How do you approach this blending in your creative process?
Regarding blending the surreal with the everyday, I approach my art with a sense of playfulness. Daydreaming has always been a part of my process. I enjoy introducing whimsical elements, and the magical often emerges organically in my work.

Feminism and sexuality are recurring themes in your art. How do these ideas influence the work you create and the way you express yourself?
As for the themes of feminism and sexuality in my art, even though maybe I don’t consciously aim to make feminist statements, my work is a response to being a woman. I want to embrace all aspects of myself, and I hope others can see that and feel empowered to love themselves fully too.

See more of EZ NAIVE’s art on instagram @ez.naive.art or her website: https://eznaive.com/