Exclusive Interview with Artist Rae Vena
From the Archive: Issue 13
Photo Gallery of artwork after interview
The surreal landscapes of Rae’s paintings are like a geography book on acid. Her dripping cut-out cubes of floating land and ripped open views of the galaxies are like a peek into her own personal world of movement and wonder. A full time artist and live painter, Rae Vena speaks with us a little about her unique perspective.
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Columbia Station, Ohio. My parents have some land out there and a farm. It was nice growing up surrounded by the forest, animals and a garden. I’d say it left a great impression on me and a deep gratitude for this land and its resources. My interest in the earth has led me to travel, and now I paint organic shapes and forms to express my experiences with the ever-evolving beauty of nature.
Where do you live now?
I live in my studio, close to downtown Cleveland in Lakewood, Ohio. I live with a couple of others artists at my place, it’s a really nice and creative safe space for the winter.
Tell us about your family.
I have one younger sister, who is a math major in college right now, and is the exact opposite of me!
What’s your favorite band and why?
One of my favorite bands to see live is Papadosio. It’s just something about their upbeat tunes and positive lyrics that get me going! Good music, and great people.
What was your first show?
Ever? I’m not sure! My first show I painted live at was Rothbury!
What shows can we catch you at in the future?
I’m currently booking another extensive summer art tour for 2013. I know you can for sure find me at Hoopla, Early Bird, May Daze, Tribal Connection, The Hessler St. Fair, Good People Good Times, Rootwire, Hyperion and The Werkout! I’ll announce the rest of my tour lineup on my website in a month or so at www.RAEVENA.com.
Do you vend at festivals/shows?
As a live performance artist, I wouldn’t call myself a vendor since only a small portion of my time and energy are spent trying sell artwork. When I’m at an event I usually like to be painting so I can talk directly with people inspired by my work.
What makes you smile?
Happy messages from my fans and supporters. Oh yeah, and my cat :D.
What grinds your gears?
When people litter, or don’t care enough to recycle. It makes me really sad to see others not take the first simple step in responsibility, and disrespect the earth.
Were you always artistic or did something bring on the desire to create?
Ever since I was child I have been drawing pictures from my imagination. Now at 24 years old, not much has changed! The only difference is instead of scribbled notebook doodles, now I make big colorful paintings on wood .
Why do you think art and creativity is necessary to society?
I think art is a good way to document moments in life, such as a specific movement or style that’s happening. The process of creating and inventing is also important for healing and transformation in our society. My style is constant evolution of the expression of my existence. Through the medium of paint, I strive to bring positivity and creativity to my community.
Where do you find inspiration?
Stars, stripes, rainbows, crystals, cats, mountains, earth, art, nature, life, love, and rock ‘n’ roll.
Who do you look up to within the art or craft world?
There are quite a few masters I look up to out there. A few of my favorite visionaries are Salvador Dali, Alex Grey, Christian Rex van Minnen, and Michael Divine.
Tell me about your creative process.
I like to start off with a sketch from a dream, or visual cue, then I let my imagination run wild on the canvas. If the painting seems to need to go another way, I’m not afraid to change the original layout. Another important aspect to have is patience. I like to take my time and always challenge myself on each new painting.
What are you working on currently, and what are your plans for the future?
Right now I’m working on this 4 by 5 foot oil piece in my studio. The piece is all about colors, shapes and different worlds. Other than that, I’ve been designing a new layout for my website, booking my tour and ordering all new prints and stickers for the summer!
What are some challenges in your craft that you have experienced?
Being constantly short on money is probably the biggest obstacle I’ve had to always battle as an artist.
What activities make you lose track of time?
The moment I sit down to the easel, or computer…time goes fast!
What do you do for fun besides create?
I love to travel and relax with friends. It’s also really fun to play tag with my cat.
Is art your only career or do you also have another career?
Since 2011 I’ve been so lucky to have focused my energy on painting – working as a performance artist and in my studio as a freelance artist. Sometimes it’s hard to make ends meet, but I’m very thankful to have support from my fans and family.
What is your studio or workspace like, and how do you work in your studio?
I’m constantly moving things around – organizing is a huge procrastination for me. I like to have my desk and easel nearby and close to a window so I can have sunlight in the work place. I usually start my day sending emails and networking, and spend the last half of my day painting and meeting with friends.
Tell me something funny that has happened to you recently.
One thing that always makes me laugh is my Catzilla likes to play tag! He will always surprise attack me and my room-mates. He’ll jump out around corners and run, because he wants you to chase after him and try to tag him back!
What is the most defining moment in your life this past year?
In 2012 I had the honor to hang my work in Alex Grey’s gallery at Burning Man with only 4 other artists. The event was a life changing stepping stone, and very spiritual. Another most recent event was in Costa Rica – I was invited to paint at Envision festival! Again I was featured in the gallery with many internationally renowned artists. It was a dream come true.
What is your view on life, i.e. the meaning you see behind it?
Personally I believe I’m here to promote positivity, and inspire creativity among others. I think we all have a special skill or talent to discover within, whether that be through yoga, gardening, spoken word, or even math! Once we can uncover our inner talent, focus your energy and harness that skill, we can then stabilize our own lives, share with our community and give back.
How does your outlook on life come out in your creations?
My painted visions are expressions of my experience. Lately I’ve had an urge to bring a message of sustainability into my work. The art is not only healing for myself, but to my gift to others. I always try to share a positive message through my artwork. Or perhaps something curious or uplifting to make them laugh! In that way I like to manifest love for the world, and my community.
If you could teach or tell the new generation of artists, what would it be?
Challenge your ability. Don’t be afraid to step out of the box of what works, and try something new once and again.
Where can we catch one of your live art performances this summer?
I’m currently still figuring out my full art tour for this summer. You can always count on a live art performance with my friends Papadosio and The Werks at Rootwire, and The Werkout 2013!
Where can we buy/order your creations?
You can see more paintings of ‘Visionary pop surrealism’ on my facebook art page @ www.facebook.com/RAEVENAartist. You can also check out my website. There you can find a link to my store with original artwork, prints and stickers available! www.RAEVENA.com .
If you are interested in the artwork or live art performance, the best way to contact Rae Vena is by Email
