As we continue to support and connect Tuam’s creative community, we’re delighted to shine a light on the incredible creative talent in our town. Meet Rachel Varden:
As a visual storyteller, Rachel crafts narratives through her paintings characterized by quick, fluid brush strokes and drawings featuring cartoon-like figures, primitive images, and surprising colour combinations. Her recent exploration delves into the intricate relationship between humans and animals.
Driven by a profound fascination for history and primitive cultures, Rachel draws inspiration from their traditional arts, symbols and use of relics. Rachel’s artistic journey is marked by continuous experimentation and learning, including four transformative residencies at the Lodestar School of Art (2019-2023) and participation in the 2022 New York Studio School Virtual Drawing and Painting Marathon.
Currently, Rachel’s focus lies in exploring The Bayeux Tapestry, examining its format, composition, and imagery to inform her own creations. Drawing from this historical inspiration, Rachel infuses her works with layers of meaning behind vibrant colours and recurring characters.
In her artistic practice, Rachel sees cartoon-like imagery as a powerful tool to challenge traditionally accepted notions of highbrow art. Through her distinctive visual language, Rachel aims to engage viewers in a dialogue that transcends boundaries and invites them to explore complex themes with fresh perspectives.
You can see Rachel’s work in an upcoming pop-up exhibition on 5 and 6 December alongside Karena Ryan and Anne Harkin-Petersen at Imelda O’Connor O’Dea’s Hight Street studio (above Canavans/Niche).
Click here to read more about Rachel and her work.
-
- Image and work: Rachel Varden
