Today we’d like to introduce you to Rosemary Allen.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I am a self-taught artist who grew up in Wisconsin and moved to Texas as a teenager. My mother is an artist and taught me how to draw and paint at a young age. I have always used drawing and painting to express myself and consider art to be my biggest medicine. In 2011 I became a massage therapist so that I could pursue my art journey. Since then I have been steadily drawing and painting, always seeking to grow to learn. In 2016 my inspiration went into overdrive after a series of concussions leaving me with nine staples in my head. This near death experience gave me so much gratitude for life and a newfound sense of courage to share myself and my artwork with the world.
Please tell us about your art.
My work as a bodyworker and healer started to influence my painting, and I started seeking deeper truths related to people’s pain and trauma as well as my own. I discovered more meaning in my subject matter after attending a visionary art intensive course with Alex and Allyson Grey in 2015. I began painting spirit animals that act as a direct representation of states of transformation and growth. The animals, to me, reflect the progression of maturity and awareness of the human experience. I paint with watercolors, oils, and acrylics as well as printing my art on clothing & fabric. I started collaborating on paintings with my partner Juan Villegas in 2017. More than anything my goal is to spread the message of the magic of nature & balancing the masculine and feminine. I recognize that so many people are disconnected from nature and all of its healing abilities, I think it is our greatest teacher, and it is vital that its knowledge is shared and celebrated.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
My advice is to find a job that you enjoy doing that acts as a “sugar daddy” for your artwork. Putting stress on yourself to make work and sell will kill your creative muse. I’ve had some of my best painting ideas come to me during massage sessions because I was able to be in a meditative state at my job. Don’t get stuck thinking you are a failure for keeping a day job; it is necessary and will help you have more freedom with your artwork.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My next solo exhibition is at the Art Camp Out hosted by Cherry Cola Dog in Smithville, TX March 29th-31st. You can find some of my work at Art For the People Gallery and Cafe Creme and other local businesses in Austin, TX. I am always updating my social media (Instagram – @rosemarykallen & facebook.com/rosemarykallen) with upcoming shows and pop-ups.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rosemoonatx.com
- Email: rosemoonatx@gmail.com
- Instagram: @rosemarykallen
- Facebook: facebook.com/rosemarykallen
- Other: @rosemoonatx (instagram for my clothing)
Image Credit:
Photo of me painting – Juan Villegas
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