Since I was a child, people have said I was always happy — carefree, floating through life with nothing but positive expectations. Growing up didn’t change that; it only deepened within me. I believe this joy is why I’m able to live my greatest passion: painting.
When I was around ten, I saw a movie scene where a room full of paintings was illuminated by black light, and suddenly the artworks transformed into magical, colorful visions. It was the most captivating thing I had ever seen, and I wanted to create that magic myself. That moment stayed with me throughout my youth. Born creative, I’ve always been drawn to art, but those few seconds of illumination left a lasting impression.
Years later, when neon active paint made its comeback in the art world, I dove right in. I explored every lighting option, tested countless brands, and after two years, I discovered my perfect formula for the ideal glow. I poured that luminescence into my soul, my life, my art — and even into my artist name, La Manda Luminescent.
My goal is to spread happiness. I truly believe that surrounding yourself with things that make you smile — things you can rely on to brighten your day — raises your overall happiness in the simplest way. I like to hide subtle messages in the dark — sometimes ironic, sometimes eye-opening. A secret story revealed under another light, offering a little surprise. It’s often not the obvious that moves you, but the small details you discover when you look closer.
Originally from Graz, photography brought me to Vienna in the year 2010, where I instantly fell in love — with the city and with my now husband, who is my biggest support in life and art. Without him none of this would be like it is now. I am very blessed with this special love and friendship. Thank you for being Michal!
As a light artist working in fantastic expressionism, I paint mainly with acrylics on canvas and add my special light effects in various stages of creation. Everything I make revolves around glowing or other light phenomena. I also love experimenting with different materials — metal powders that shift colors, resin for highlights, and gold leaf that frequently finds its way into my work. Pairing my vibrant, modern art with antique, heavy wooden frames has become a signature detail. Restoring these old frames and giving them new life brings me immense joy. My life has never been more colorful or joyful, and that spirit shines through in my work: colors, happiness, and a touch of social commentary… because the irony lives in me as well 🙂