Update: Endings and Beginnings

Implants, 2016, 8 x 10 inches, ink and graphite on paper, SOLD

I have been enjoying a bit of a break as far as art shows go--the last one of 2016 was in November and I will not be showing until February* 2017 at Verge PDX.  I install on February 2nd and there will be a reception on Thursday, February 16th. I am excited to wrap up some projects including a commission for a friend I've been putting off, an on the fly commission for a white elephant gift (above), and a piece I've been strangely paralyzed to begin for Catherine Haley Epstein's Coloring Project (below).

It's strange because I felt so freed from the "Inktober" drawings featured in my last show. Working on that series helped me rediscover my imagination and remind myself not to be too precious about things. But here I am, being too precious with this--however, to share this, I've accomplished Step 1: take drawing out of plastic sleeve. Catherine so thoughtfully hand-picked this image for me--taking in consideration the death of my mother when I was 25 and also my printmaking background by choosing Käthe Kollwitz' striking imagery.  The deadline is January 7--stay tuned for updates.

I'm also excited to announce that I've been accepted on the Board of Directors for Public Annex and have been acting as their Social Media/Communications Director. In addition to this, I'm working on my very first syllabus for Experimental Drawing--a class for Public Annex's first term!

I'm filled with gratitude for Jesse Reklaw who, along with his constant encouragement, challenges and kindness, sent me his own syllabi from the past and shared with me Lynda Barry's Syllabus and What It Is for me to glean from. The first term of classes run from January 23rd - April 6th. Experimental Drawing is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am - noon at Taborspace on Belmont. One of many details I've snagged from Lynda Barry--anyone who wishes to take this class need not have any artistic talent or drawing experience.  I'm thrilled to meet my students, and I hope I can help people fall in love with drawing.

Until Next Time,

Rachel

*This was edited from it's original post on 12/19--I confirmed mentally but not actually for March, but Verge kindly reserved a slot for me in February instead. Thanks Alanna!

First Friday Opening Reception at Bare Bones Cafe

Hello again everyone!

I'm thrilled to announce my work will be on view June 3 - June 30 at Bare Bones Cafe on Belmont!

This is going to be a very special opening reception--as Bare Bones graciously waives their commission, I will be donating 30% of my art sales to my favorite fledgling non-profit, Public Annex!

Find out more and donate directly here!

Public Annex (PA) is special to me because I am so spoiled and honored to know the community of hard working people hoping to lift this phoenix off the ground--from my former supervisor, Carissa Burkett, these are her beautiful words about this amazing and necessary nonprofit:

I am very excited to publicly announce a major project that I have been working on alongside my incredible colleagues and friends.

The state of Oregon along with federal changes are cutting funds going to incredible programs that support adults with developmental disabilities. We have formed a new non-profit called Public Annex, that will work within/outside/around/above the systems that limit access. Our goal is to provide accessible urban farming and arts programming, focusing on inclusivity of artists and farmers with developmental disabilities.

Our mission is to break down systemic barriers that prohibit marginalized populations from inclusivity by building a community around accessible farming and art programming.

Come celebrate with me and help me support Public Annex! There will be originals and prints available for sale, to accommodate most budgets.

In other exciting news, Lorna Dune and Keith Sweaty, two of my dearest people and super fun DJs, will be slinging tunes during the reception! Of course, there'll also be tasty snacks and refreshing beverages from Bare Bones!

Can't wait to see you there!