Listening Beyond

Interview with artist Rachel Rebecca

1. Please tell us something about your background and your art journey so far.

When I studied at Dickinson College, I took a class called The Body in Contemporary Art. I knew from that class, i wanted to study art professionally. I wanted the freedom of my voice in visual and performative forms. I graduated with a BA in Art and Art History with an Art History emphasis. After college, I took a break from producing art and went into the healing arts, studying with energy healers, yoga instructors, and Tibetan monks. After a pelvic injury and back injury, I was left physically compromised and turned to drawing, painting and sculpture again. I traveled to various places abroad such as Italy and Nepal to connect with my artistic soul once again. I picked up where I left off in college with a new perspective of spirituality, travel, and working through chronic pain. I am now a muralist, artist, energy healer, and yoga teacher in Woodstock, VA. I have shown and painted murals at various locations in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond, and my art is touching larger audiences.

2. Describe what a normal day looks like as an artist.

The piece starts speaking before the first brush stroke. I get “snagged” by the universe with various images and life experiences to use as inspiration. The work is constantly talking to me and it is my job to listen and follow through. It is a conversational dance with the universe. There are unseen forces at work and I allow all of my senses to be inundated with information and then start the act of making. The process is just as important as the final production.

3. Can you tell us more about the theme in your art and your inspiration?

I find that I produce work that speaks to nature and the mystical. I want to create places of whimsical magic. I want it to inspire both children and adults. I aspire to capture the innocence of play. I am discovering that the earth, and possibly beyond, is hearing the voice of the feminine, which to me means a quiet, joyful power. This is what I want to embody in the art that I create.

Rachel Rebecca & her artwork 'Magical Joy'

4. How does your art life impact other parts of your life?

My art life and single mom life is a dance. After I finish a big mural project, I usually take a break to be with my son. Being present with my son takes priority. However, I am always listening for what is needed for future projects. A silent conversation with the universe and I make notes in my journal before the ripe time to actively start painting. The cycle is endless and I love it.

5. Could you share any difficulties and hardships you had to face in life and how or if you managed/overcame them?

At 21 I broke my pelvis and hurt my lower back. I developed nerve entrapment syndrome and underwent surgery. I still have chronic pain. Making art became a healing journey. The injury slowed me down to learn drawing and painting techniques. I gained a sense of humility and appreciation for my body and the lessons learned from it. Recently, I had a neurological issue with my head and eye. My vision in that eye became double. I went through another challenge that changed the way I see the world around me. My vision improved but my “sight” was forever changed.

6. Tell us about your best experience in the art world so far.

I recently completed a 530 sq. foot mural for the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce. It was a mural that captured the beauty of nature while also embracing my magical and etheric style. I learned so much and felt as if I brought a piece of wonder to the county and beyond.

'In Bloom' by Rachel Rebecca

7. Share your worst experience in the art world.

I remember there was a time when I was jealous of an artist that had this brazen unapologetic passion and vibrant hues, and painting on various unconventional objects. My art at the time was dark and bound to a canvas. I realized that there was a part of me that was holding back my light. She was a good teacher for me because I realized that I wanted to express myself this way, but with my voice. Jealousy can be a great teacher when we pause and look inward. I don’t know if I would call it my worst, but it was a very challenging reckoning.

8. What practical advice can you give to fellow artists?

Find a good manager who can take care of managerial tasks such as invoices and project proposals.

9. Is the artist life lonely? Please share your thoughts and experiences.

It is can be lonely, but that is something I love about it. It is this deep connection to yourself that is invaluable. You learn to be quiet and listen. I have noticed that many unseen art guides come to help me. There is a universe inside of me that is rich and full of wonder and being alone with my paint brush helps me tap into that.

10. What are you working on at the moment and are there any upcoming events you would like to talk about?

I am currently gathering ideas for a group show at the Framed Factory in Harrisonburg, VA. It is entitled Tarot-Sonburg. Artists choose a Tarot card from the Rider Tarot Deck and are tasked with creating a card design based on the card drawn on a wooden panel. I chose The World. I believe this tarot for me has deep meaning. I am entering into a new phase with my art and reaching a worldwide audience. I am also accessing internal and perhaps unseen worlds that have entered into my art.

Website: www.rrhealingarts.com

Social media: @rrhealingarts