Rachel Espenlaub (b. 1991) is an acrylic abstract painter from Colorado Springs, CO. She earned a B.F.A. in Painting from Tyler School of Art at Temple University (Philadelphia, PA) in 2015, with a 1.5 year study abroad at Temple’s campus in Rome, Italy. Notable awards include a National Gold Medal in Painting from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards (New York, NY; 2010). She recently completed a six month painting retreat and internship at the Gallery of Art at Temple University Rome. Currently, she is based in Fayetteville, NC. “Structure and rules are the basis for my work. My paintings are flat, simple arrangements of shapes that follow specific patterns for color and position. Sharp, crisp edges add definition and emphasize orderliness. Color rules create predictability and calmness. I enjoy the challenge of simplistic compositions that convey compelling rhythmic architectures.” Venmo: @rachelespenlaub
Favorite Local Place: Leclair’s General Store
3 Things I Can’t Live Without: Dogs, chocolate, outdoor spaces to enjoy
Local Artist I admire: Kenneth Proseus (an artist, gallery owner, and art promoter who lives in Raleigh)
A practice I’ve started in quarantine that I plan to continue: starting the day off with a long walk with the dogs
One of my current artistic experiments: painting with a very limited color palette for at least 10 paintings
Someone who encouraged my art work: My parents every step of the way!
My advice for other artists: Get rid of the pressure to make artwork you think other people will like or is cool. If you stay true to making the art that is fun and interesting to you, others will see that in your work.
Color of Fayetteville 