Rachel Ayala

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 esc...

Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School- Art Major
SUNY Purchase NY- Bachelor of Fine Arts- Painting Concentration

Ethereal Ibiza