Rough Life: Strange New World Painting

Artist Bio: I am the truest of true New Yorkers, born at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Raised by first generation Puerto Rican parents, meaning they were also raised in NYC, specifically in Spanish Harlem AKA “El Barrio.” My folks came from humble backgrounds, so their natural instincts were to work hard to be able to send me (and lil bro) to the best schools possible at the time. Where we actually resided, The South Bronx and where I went to school (daily) on Central Park West, were the epitome of extreme contrasts. Yes, I was one of those kids who knew the train system like the back of my hand by the age of 7 years old. I was as fiercely independent, as I was vigilant, eyes wide open at all times. I was aware that The City was a dangerous place and full of predators. I can’t say my daily subway rides were mundane in anyway, the priceless exposure to the cultural melting pot (that makes up NYC) has made me who I am today. There was visual stimulation everywhere, I adored the trains full of Graffiti and Keith Haring’s ubiquitous character doodles. In hindsight, I believe I enjoyed the grit, grime and seediness of The City, it was entertaining, never a dull moment. As far back as I can remember, I always had a way of escaping reality. Rachel’s universe started as soon as I picked up an instrument with colour and put it to paper. My inclination towards the Fine Arts was evident, I was well equipped with supplies; I day-dreamed and scribbled “make-believe” as I pleased. I would say Fine Art made a big stamp in my life at 14 years old, when I was accepted to The Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School, AKA Music & Art, (The Fame School). At this point Art was no longer a hobby, it was my daily school curriculum and major focus. After High School I continued on (with focus on painting) to graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from, SUNY Purchase (NY). After my University studies I worked in The Fashion Industry for 15 years (plus). My art school training fused with my innate fondness for expression through personal style resulted in a career as a Celebrity Stylist and Designer. I was fortunate that my talents allowed me to work with many luminaries in The Entertainment Business. Après Fashion… which will forever be one of my great loves, running through my veins. I left America with my family, we relocated to The Cote d’ Azur for five years and then moved again to Ibiza, Spain.