Arti Ishak
Biography
Originally from Detroit, Arti Ishak (they/them) is a Chicago-based actor, director and filmmaker. Most known as Mara McHenry on Dark Matter (Apple TV), you might also recognize them as Monet from Brujos (OTV) or Iman from Born and Raised (OTV). They are also known for their work as a director on short films Shukran Bas (Means of Production), ba la (HF Productions), and HALF (Zaxie Films). Arti is an instructor at Black Box Acting and an adjunct professor at The Theatre School at DePaul University.
Known For & Full Filmography5 Titles
Drama Series - 2012, 16 episodes • as Gaia
An edge-of-your-seat view into the lives of everyday heroes committed to one of America's noblest professions. For the firefighters, rescue squad and paramedics of Chicago Firehouse 51, no occupation is more stressful or dangerous, yet so rewarding and exhilarating. These courageous men and women are among the elite who forge headfirst into danger when everyone else is running the other way and whose actions make the difference between life and death.
Drama Series - 2015, 16 episodes • as Brie
An emotional thrill ride through the day-to-day chaos of the city's most explosive hospital and the courageous team of doctors who hold it together. They will tackle unique new cases inspired by topical events, forging fiery relationships in the pulse-pounding pandemonium of the emergency room.
Drama Series - 2024, 16 episodes • as Mara McHenry
Jason Dessen is abducted into an alternate version of his life. To get back to his true family, he embarks on a harrowing journey to save them from the most terrifying foe imaginable: himself.
Drama Series - 2019, 16 episodes • as Liz
Two recent community-college graduates get stuck working at Rent-T-Own in the Chicago neighborhood of Englewood and work to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Movie - 2025, 2h 15m • as Nadia
An ambitious hotel manager returns to her family's B&B for Christmas to find all three of her high school exes staying there.