Artist bio

My name is Rachel Crawford and I am a contemporary abstract painter based in Charlotte, NC. My body of work began in 2015 when I explored abstract composition for the first time in my career. Each of my pieces was created using modeling paste and acrylic paint with a wide variety of tools and brushes. They each range from 20x24" to 36x48" canvases. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art with a concentration in painting and drawing from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master's Degree in Art Therapy from The George Washington University. Apart from my work as a painter I am an art therapist at a day support program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Title

Love Hate Relationship

Medium/Genre

Painting

How it fits into contest

This piece was created in the midst of a difficult situation that resulted in a deep personal loss. Verse 12 from Ephesians 6:10-20 really resonated with me during this time which states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This hardship contained betrayal, misunderstanding, and disagreement which forced me to lean on the concept about remembering who the real enemy is and not to fight for what Jesus already freely gave. As I painted, I processed. And as I processed, I grieved. During this particular time, I chose to explore an unfamiliar abstract composition and style. My typical style consisted of blended, soft colors but that did not feel right for this process and situation. While the painting may be complete, the situation is not. I am currently believing and leaning on God to bring this situation to a resolution, even if it hurts.

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Curious? Interested in submitting artwork to our contest? Know someone who might be? Through April 14th, 2022, the Engage Art Contest is open to the whole world! Get your foot in the door by claiming your Artist Page now!