Manufacturer’s Village Collective of Artist Studios, 356 Glenwood Avenue, East Orange, NJ 07017
About Me & About My Art
Artist Statement
Artist Statement
Artist Statement
My paintings and wall sculptures are my emotions and soul laid bare. Rooted in deep curiosity, my art comes from intuitively exploring the interplay between mediums, materials, and elements such as fire and water. The result is evocative, layered, textured, and organic.
I’m equally curious about my inner world, and seek to understand aspects of myself that my work reflects. Only when my pieces are complete can I be certain of their meanings and messages.
Much of my process is unpredictable, and I surrender to it completely. Whether I’m pouring acrylic paint, blending alcohol inks, or using fire to sculpt and scorch, it excites me to never know precisely where I’ll end up.
With the medium as my co-creator, I feel my way through each piece, working more intentionally as the composition reveals itself. I’m primal and gestural when I create—I often eschew brushes for my bare hands. And I love how wood panels and yupo respond to my aggressive mark making.They’re steadfast collaborators that remain stable as I press, rub, scrape, and torch.
Metallics are a near constant in my work, glowing subtly from beneath the surface, or boldly drawing attention to shapes. I especially love using fire and paint on these powerful colors, evoking decay from natural elements, and helping my art to convey the beauty and significance of vulnerability.
I find beauty in our ever-evolving, imperfect selves, and in the transformations that occur in nature. I embrace these qualities, and that message is communicated in every detail of my work.
The creative process feels intimate and sacred. But I also hold a deep respect for the relationship between artwork and viewer. The shared experience of witnessing others connecting with my work is one of my greatest joys.
For images of current work, please see photo galleries or visit me on Instagram @rachelpruzanstudio.
“Unveilings”
Artist Statement
Artist Statement
This series explores what we choose to reveal to the world, how we reveal it, and how it feels when we make ourselves vulnerable. I explore opacity and surface quality in these works.
“Stone Roses”
“Stone Roses”
“Stone Roses”
This series explores the transformations we experience as humans, and those that occur in nature. It embodies the strength and beauty found in all stages of age and decay. I explore the effects of fire—along with other natural elements and phenomena—in these works.
“Excursions”
“Stone Roses”
“Stone Roses”
Journeys to landscapes in my minds eye. Free explorations.