Dark River No. 3, Abstract River Painting Painting

My artist name comes from my middle name – Rokita, meaning ‘Little Rock’. I grew up in a mixed family – on my father’s side, Puerto Rican – a complicated mix of Taino Indian, Spanish, and Greek – and on my mother’s side, a white American – originally from Boston with family roots leading back to Nathan Hale and the American Revolutionary War. When my father chose my middle name, he wanted to give me something that would tie me back to my Puerto Rican heritage. Something I’d have with me even if I married someday and decided to take a different last name. Something that would remind me that I’m strong. Throughout my early years, I felt anything but strong. Growing up in poverty will do that to you. I found solace in drawing, painting, and in escapes to the local library. And I was hell-bent on becoming what I loved – an artist, and a librarian. That strength to come into my own was there despite the pain. And I’m so grateful that I’ve fought to get where I am today. The result of the pain I’ve faced over the years has resulted in work that powerfully connects to my soul – each piece is a letting-go of myself. Turning the pain into something beautiful. And expressing my very soul each moment I paint. I hope that my work can connect to your soul too. It’s here for those who need to escape into beautiful, imaginary worlds. For those who need a reminder on their wall that it’s ok to let go and live in the moment.