Interview with Artist Collaborator Rachel Rasnick

May’s Feature Artist on Main St. and Long-time Artist Collaborator is Rachel Rasnick! If you’ve been in our gallery spaces, you’ve likely seen Rachel’s beautiful and uplifting paintings. We had the pleasure of hearing from Rachel about her creative process, sources of inspiration, and favorite memories at The Collaborative.

rachel’s opening is on March 25h at 498 Main Street from 6-8pm.

What and who gives you artistic inspiration?

I get inspiration from places I’ve been and that I’ve taken photos of. I also spend a lot of time looking at photos online to see what I want to paint. 

How/why did you become involved with The Collaborative?

The Collaborative has always been a special place. When I first found out about it, I was a visiting artist. Then I had a pop up. I think I am the first Artist with Developmental Disabilities and on the Autism Spectrum to be a Collaborating Artist. Everyone makes me feel welcome. 

What is your favorite memory at The Collaborative and what are you looking forward to most for your opening?

My favorite memories are of my first show when so many people came out to support me and purchase my art. My other favorite memory is when my mom and I were working on a Friday night and we got take out and had a nice dinner in the gallery after closing.

I’m looking forward to my opening and having people come and see all my new artwork.

What kind of work do you plan on making next?

I just finished a small painting of a Shofar (a ram’s horn) and I had it made into holiday cards for the Jewish New Year. I’m also painting a butterfly from a photo I took on my trip to Butterfly World in Florida. I may paint a tree or an animal next. I’ll see what inspires me.