Artist Statement
Through my work, I hope to share and inspire love and respect for the natural world... As part of something so much larger than ourselves, there’s serenity in knowing that our lives are like drops of water in the ocean.
My painting style combines abstract expressionism with rhythm-based paint application. I draw inspiration from science and nature and often approach a canvas with experimental techniques unique to that canvas. Music adds rhythm to brush strokes, as soft washes gain textured details brimming with movement. As a proud environmental advocate, I volunteer as a New York City tree steward in my community, and can often be found cleaning the beaches of Far Rockaway, paying respect to the Atlantic Ocean, my eternal well of inspiration. |
Artist Bio
A native of the Ocean State, Renée began her career studying Theatre at the University of Rhode Island. During her BFA, she would often visit Monet’s Waterlilies at the Museum of Fine Art in Boston, and still draws upon the Impressionist masters for inspiration. After completing an MFA in Costume Technology at the University of Texas, Austin, Renée relocated to New York City, where she currently works as a tailor and costume supervisor for the Metropolitan Opera.
As an emerging artist of Astoria, Queens, Renée’s recent projects include an extensive collaboration with TINSTY. “Aqueous Isolations” began as a shared love letter to the ocean, but evolved into an exploration of isolated collaboration during the pandemic. The work culminated with a live performance and virtual art gallery at FirstLive Studios in Bushwick, and ended with a series of 21 small-scale paintings devoted to ocean advocacy and endangered corals of the world. The following year, Renée received a grant from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and Queens Council on the Arts to produce "The Painting Pavilion:" a series of painting inspired by self-initiated beach clean ups and local jazz musicians. The project culminated with a gallery opening in Far Rockaway, Queens with a live performance by collaborating musicians. |
"The cure for anything is salt water;
sweat, tears, or the sea."
- Isak Denisen
|
Follow me on Instagram: |