Cool and calm minimalism by Rachel Espenlaub
Hi Rachel, let’s talk about your artistic background
I was born and raised in Colorado Springs, CO. In 2015, I graduated with a B.F.A. in Painting from Tyler School of Art at Temple University (Philadelphia, PA) with a 1.5 year study abroad at Temple’s campus in Rome, Italy. Recently, I completed a six month painting retreat and internship at the Gallery of Art at Temple University Rome. Currently, I am based in Fayetteville, NC.
Please describe your style
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 minimalistic compositions that convey compelling rhythmic architectures. My style is minimalistic abstraction. My work is geometric with hard edges and flat colors and features intersecting triangle patterns. I use a limited color palette for each composition.
Do you have any wishes?
My goals are to continue making work, regardless of what life throws at me. I am pursuing opportunities to show my work and would love to land an artist residency.
Your guiding principle?
My artistic philosophy is to be disciplined in making things neat and pristine, while also not being afraid to trash or change things completely.
Rachel Espenlaub ★ Artist resume
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 (NYC, 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.
Thank you very much, Rachel.
Instagram: @rachel_esp_