Artist Q&A: Rachel English.

I am completely enamored with realist painter Rachel English’s work. Her paintings of the sky are so realistic looking that they look like photos at first. Stunning. It’s incredible. Rachel is based in Austin, TX and is inspired by the intersection of physical science, philosophy, and the skies.

Artist Q&A: Rachel English

Where are you from?

Austin, TX

How did you get your start as an artist?

Art has always run through my veins, but it didn’t become a career path for me until midway through undergraduate school. I’d pull all-nighters painting instead of studying for psychology exams as I should have been doing, so it was a no-brainer switching majors to studio art. After graduating, I took on commissioned work while applying to calls and grants left and right until I got my first solo exhibition about a year and a half later. 

What are your favorite sources of inspiration?

The skies! Weather, atmospheric phenomena, infinite space, thinking of the earth as a pale blue dot swirling with activity amid a mysterious, wonderful universe. Being curious about why we’re here, why we get to be here at all.

What is something that is important to you?

My daughter.

Something others might not know about you?

I’m trained in the field of forensic art to conduct cognitive interviews with witnesses and create composite sketches from their descriptions, which can help law enforcement identify unknown individuals.

Want more of Rachel? Follow her on Instagram, check out her website, and view her available works at Liz’s gallery!

In case you missed it, I am collaborating with my friend Liz Lidgett on a series of artist features! Check out our digital art show, save 10% off your purchase with code GRACE through 8/11. And all month long, I will be profiling some of my favorite artists here on the blog.