By: Nic Abelian
In the heart of Los Angeles, where creativity thrives and trends are born, a unique beauty brand that values art and beauty is emerging: Zhanelica. Known for its eye-catching, vibrant products, Zhanelica specializes in eyeshadow palettes, colorful eyeliners, moisturizing lipsticks, and many other products showcased on its dynamic and engaging website.
Zhanelica was founded in 2020 by a mother-daughter duo, Bota and Zhanel, who share a deep passion for art and beauty. Every eyeshadow palette has a meaning because it was designed with art and utility in mind. They aim to create aesthetically pleasing products that delight the senses and inspire creativity.
Don’t worry if you have sensitive skin—Zhanelica is perfect for you. Every product is formulated with the consumer in mind, making them vegan, gluten-free, and free of harsh chemicals like phthalates and parabens. You can rest assured that you’re using something that won’t irritate your skin, even if you’re prone to sensitivities with other makeup brands.
Zhanelica’s eyeshadow palettes feature bold, bright colors that are perfect for makeup artists and everyday use alike. Their lipsticks have been compared to moisturizing chapsticks but with the added benefit of providing rich, natural color—it’s like having the finest of both worlds in one product.
Photo Courtesy: Bota Bray (Zhanel)
The eyeliners are by far their best-selling product. Smudge-proof and waterproof, they are a staple in everyone’s makeup bag. The classic black eyeliner is perfect for a timeless look, while the pink and blue options offer something more adventurous. Easy to use for beginners, these eyeliners feature a cotton tip that allows for precise application and maneuverability.
“Both Zhanel and I are dedicated to ensuring our products are made with 100% paper packaging instead of the standard plastic used in the beauty industry,” says Bota. “Not only is paper packaging more eco-friendly, but it also aligns with our goal to create a brand that is cruelty-free and conscious of its carbon footprint.”
Since its launch in 2020, Zhanelica has acquired an impressive following of 160,000 loyal fans, many of whom are repeat customers who return year after year. Their Instagram is colorful and thoughtfully curated, reflecting their passion for giving back to the art community.
Photo Courtesy: Bota Bray (Zhanel)
In late 2023, Zhanelica hosted the ArtVember event at the TAG Gallery, celebrating the union of art and beauty. The event brought together a diverse group of people from all art industries, including actors, producers, acting coaches, musicians, sculptors, digital artists, painters, dancers, and more. There were also agents and other industry professionals, creating a vibrant networking environment where everyone was welcome.
Photo Courtesy: Bota Bray (Zhanel) / Pictures from most recent ArtVember Event hosted by Zhanelica in 2023
“We know it’s been extremely hard for artists in the Los Angeles area to network and meet one another authentically, especially after the strikes,” says Zhanel. “Our goal with ArtVember was to make a positive impact on the industry and help artists reconnect and thrive. We hoped this event would help artists step back into the scene after the strike, as booking projects had become challenging. A networking opportunity today could lead to future collaborations, as a person might know someone who knows someone looking for talent at our event.”
The event also featured small businesses selling their art, including two visual artists—a sculptor and a digital artist—who sold their work. It was a very successful night, full of meaningful connections and creative energy. Zhanelica plans to host another event in 2024, making ArtVember an annual tradition where artists can come together to network, inspire each other, and potentially find new opportunities.
If you’re someone who loves bold colors, ethical products, and the fusion of art and beauty, Zhanelica is for you. Explore their offerings at www.zhanelica.com and become part of a community that values creativity and the planet.
If these values align with yours, give them a follow on Instagram @zhanelica.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
