Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachael Nerney Reese.
Hi Rachael, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised north of Boston in a quiet town in New Hampshire. I’ve always been creative and have been lucky enough to explore that creative passion from a young age. In 2009 I enrolled at the Savannah College of Art (SCAD) in Savannah, GA. That is when I decided to take becoming an artist seriously and when my love affair with The South began. I majored in Illustration, where I developed analog and digital painting techniques.
After college I worked full time as an in-house store artist for Whole Foods Market (WFM). There, I expanded upon my graphic design skills, built 3D displays out of foam board, and created large scale paintings for store decor. This is when I began painting food, what I am currently known for. Looking back, I am grateful for so many aspects of this job. It was the perfect building block for my career path and introduced me to one of my best friends.
As my chapter with WFM closed, another began in Charleston, SC. I started working for Sarah Miller Gelber, founder of The Miller Gallery. My path drastically shifted from there. Working hard from the ground up, I learned what it takes to operate a contemporary fine art gallery. While I began working as a gallery associate, I eventually evolved into a represented artist.
In January 2019 I had my first duet exhibition at The Miller Gallery with Julia Deckman. That was one of the first significant moment of my career. At the end of that year, we were nominated for the Best Exhibit of 2019 by the Charleston City Paper. Since then, my work has been featured on Magnolia Networks’ “Happy To Be Home” and exhibited at the Affordable Art Fair in New York City. My fine artwork is represented by multiple galleries across the Southeast including The Miller Gallery, Art & Light Gallery, and Shain Gallery.
My most recent and exciting partnership began last year. My work is now represented by Wain’s World Licensing Agency. Wain’s World fosters partnerships for my artwork to be placed onto products like stationary, home goods, calendars, and more. I am pleased to share that I have lots of projects under wraps at the moment. Be sure to follow me on instagram @rachaelreesestudio and subscribe to my substack linked at rachaelreese.com to stay in the know!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Overall it has been a fairly smooth road. The first struggle for me was the financial risk I took leaving a full time position for Whole Foods. I was terrified to take the financial leap because I always had a growing, guaranteed paycheck. With a huge leap of faith, I took the gallery associate job knowing initially I would just get by. I knew there was so much to learn in the industry. I also knew I would make it work because my heart was in it. Looking back, it was the tipping point in building my most authentic career. I was immersed in the gallery world which led to so many opportunities and lucky breaks – all of it a result of hard work.
As I’ve continued down this path, I am heavily reliant on discipline and consistency. My creative business has no paved path. Each year has its own challenges, particularly finding balance. Some years that means figuring out the best way to allocate limited time for projects. Other years that means using resources more thoughtfully because of changing cash flow. I’ve found that it’s most important to show up for myself in a consistent way so every day doesn’t feel like a rollercoaster. Through daily yoga practice, I’ve found I can show up as my best self each day and better manage life’s challenges.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a fine artist and illustrator. My artwork captures fleeting moments through vibrant color, light, and pattern. The goal of my paintings is to spread hope and foster connection through my whimsical artwork. I am known for my tablescape, floral, and food inspired paintings. Food has been a consistent source of comfort and inspiration throughout my life.
My background in painting, graphic design, and sign making have all led me to what I am creating today. I specialize in custom paintings for individuals, designing artwork for products, and installing murals. What sets me apart is that I am deeply passionate about the process of creative work. I love to research visual inspiration in books, magazines, and out in the world. My diverse background in digital and analog skills aid my ability to visualize an end result and break down the steps to physically make it come to fruition. I enjoy the process as much as the finished work.
What matters most to you? Why?
Being the best human I can be. Staying curious. Doing good work. How lucky am I to create images that light up people’s lives? I believe that joy and optimism are infectious. It is an honor and privilege to have this opportunity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rachaelreese.com
- Instagram: rachaelreesestudio
