Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel DelaRosa.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Well, I’ve been drawing since I can remember… 4 years old, maybe. And, it just sort of developed into a hobby for me… something I’d impress my friends with. I never felt I was “good enough” to do anything with my drawing skills; even after convincing myself to take interior design courses at U of H, the corporate aspect of art didn’t work for me. Even writing a sentence with the words “corporate” and “art” seems like a grammatical error! I just couldn’t force the art on a daily “schedule”. Don’t get me wrong, there were some VERY talented students and I could have probably gone all the way with some sort of design degree, but it just wasn’t in the cards. And for about 12 years, my art kind of went on a hiatus. Aside from doodles on my work notebooks, it took a backseat to… life. I started a career in the industrial hose business – at a small “mom n’ pop” supplier, where I met my love, Carlos. We were married and added a daughter and a son to our already blended family. We now have 6 kids! (Yes, I said SIX). It’s a little crazy sometimes, but we love it.
Then, in 2014, I was introduced to chalk art. I attended Houston’s Via Colori chalk festival and was in awe at the beautiful creations put down on the pavement! My mom finally got me to enter in 2016 and ever since that Willy Wonka chalk drawing, I’ve been hooked. With over 200,000 attendees, I gained a lot of exposure. I met lots of other amazing artists, and have been given SO many opportunities to share my gift. As selfish as it may sound, affirmation does carry a lot of weight. You know, some people think it’s just a natural gift… to be able to do things like paint or sing or play a piano. But ask any pro… practice makes perfect. Artwork is “work”. I have, on my own, and in my own time, put a lot of effort into what I can do. And with so much appreciation for my work and the support of my friends and family, I’ve gained a lot of confidence. And now, it isn’t as important… how “good” I am, compared to others. I’m doing my thing to the best of my ability. “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” -Arthur Ashe
Has it been a smooth road?
Most things worth doing aren’t achieved easily. Like I said, I have a big family, I have a full-time job and other interests besides drawing and painting. I’m very new to the art scene, so all of the chalk gigs, and gallery shows and personal requests can pile up one a newbie like me. It takes a lot of planning, a great support system and “Google Calendar”. HA! In all seriousness, my husband, “Los” has been a tremendous support to my evolving art career. There’s a lot of time that goes into chalking and painting, so when I need a hand with the kids, or homework or dinner, he’s there to “pinch-hit”.
Personally, I’ve hit a few roadblocks here and there… mostly with my own inner struggles. I’m still coming to terms with not having to be perfect. Especially when it comes to chalking-your body gets tired, your palms start to hurt, your fingers are raw from blending… you really have to listen to your body and know when it’s time to take a break or call it a day. I
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I don’t have a business but I do side art-work when I can work it into my schedule!
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Even though I don’t have my own business, I would love to have one someday! Maybe selling paintings and prints of my quirky stuff… maybe hiring myself out as a professional chalk artist, who knows?
But yes, Houston is an excellent place to start. We have everything! Houston is such a diverse place to live with so much to draw from. With amazing fine art to vibrant street painting, any budding artist with a passion can find their niche.
Pricing:
- chalk art-$100/hour for first 2 hours (2 hr. minimum), $45/each additional hour required
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @rayrayoftherose
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ray.ohoulihan
- Other: https://goo.gl/photos/DGJUmr7Ez6i8ZL3j9
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
