We recently connected with Rachael Tyrell and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Rachael thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I kind of stumbled into this whole art thing. As for turning it into a real pursuit? That’s super new for me.

Looking back, I wish I’d been braver earlier on! I spent so much time second-guessing myself. I worried about ‘messing up’ and not being good enough. If I could whisper in the ear of my past self, I’d say, Hey, dive in! Those ‘mistakes’ are going to be your best teachers.

The real game-changers for me? Learning to trust my lines, even when my hand shakes a little. Understanding how a shadow can bring a whole figure to life. Expression. Movement. And most importantly, finding the courage to put my own spin on pinup style. It’s terrifying and thrilling all at once.

I’ve hit my fair share of walls – trying to make Sharpies play nice with Sumi ink, battling that voice that says ‘you’re not good enough.’ But every time I push through, I find a new piece of myself in the art. Let’s just say I’ve had my fair share of ‘happy accidents’ trying to blend different ink types. Overcoming the fear of making mistakes with permanent media was a big one. There’s no eraser with ink. And putting my work out there? That took some nerve.

I’m still green in this world, no doubt about it. Some days I feel like I’m fumbling in the dark. I have no idea what I’m doing! But there’s this moment, when the ink hits the paper just right, and suddenly I can see the artist I’m becoming. It’s addictive. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a bit new to the scene, but I’m diving headfirst into the world of pinup art with a twist. My medium of choice? So far it’s various paper, Sharpies, Sumi ink, and India ink.

I stumbled into this world almost by accident. There’s something about the bold lines and timeless allure of pinup style that’s always grabbed me. I’ve been a model too, so I use my portfolio as reference. I’m a one-stop shop! And not so secretly, I’ve always wanted to be a superheroine, so why don’t I draw myself as one? Combine that with my love for the permanence and flow of ink, and here we are.

What sets my work apart? I suppose it’s the blend of materials I use. Sharpies give a lowbrow edge, while traditional Sumi and India inks add depth. It’s like bridging the gap between vintage charm and contemporary art. Each piece is a balancing act – I try and use equal parts classic glamour, with parts of raw energy.

So far, I’ve been creating zines, art prints, and merch. I also do papier-mâché from time to time, and love creating maligned animals like possums in that medium. I also do creative embroidery here and there. My clients range from individuals that admire strong female characters to friends that want artwork for their events. I have drawn a handful of men, though: Nick Cave, Rowland S. Howard, Ian Curtis, Lux Interior, and Aleister Crowley. Intense characters for sure.

What am I most proud of? The courage that it takes to put my work out there. Every piece feels like I’m baring a bit of my soul. There’s a bit of me in every piece of my art. I’m proud of every wobbly line that I’ve turned into a flourish. Every ‘mistake’ is eventually incorporated into the final piece. It’s all part of the journey.

If there’s one thing I want potential clients and followers to know, it’s that my art is about celebration – of beauty, of individuality, of the perfectly imperfect. Whether you’re buying an original, print or zine, you’re not just getting art; you’re getting a snapshot of confidence, a moment of boldness captured in ink.

I’m still growing and learning. I invite you all to grow with me. Every new piece is an adventure, and I’m excited to see where this ink-stained path leads. So if you’re into art that’s a little bit classic, a little bit edgy, and a whole lot of heart – stick around.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

The hardest lesson I’ve had to unlearn? The idea that creativity can be measured or graded like a math test. It’s an icky story to tell, but it goes back to my 11th grade art class.

I can still feel the knot in my stomach when my teacher called me over. His words hit me like a sledgehammer: my art was so bad, he said, that becoming his teaching assistant was the only way I’d ever pass the class! Can you believe that? Sixteen years old, pouring my heart onto paper, only to be basically told it was worthless.

For years after that, every time I picked up a marker, pencil, or brush, I’d hear his voice. It wasn’t just about art anymore; it seeped into everything. I honestly questioned my worth, my potential, my place in the world.

That art teacher tried to clip my wings, but he didn’t know I’d learn to fly without them. His dismissal of my work wasn’t just about art – it was about power, about who gets to decide what’s valuable. I’ve spent years unlearning that lesson, reclaiming my creativity. Now, my art is an act of resistance, a middle finger to anyone who thinks they can define the worth of another person’s expression.

And don’t let petty people try to intimidate you into thinking that they “own” a particular medium. Spite can be a great motivator!

This process of unlearning has become the backbone of my art. Each piece I create is a nod to resilience. It’s why I encouraging others to create fearlessly, to express themselves without worrying about judgment.

That awful 11th grade experience? It’s become a strange sort of gift. It reminds me how far I’ve come. It renews my drive to keep evolving on my own terms. In a weird way, I’m thankful for it – not for the pain, but for the artist it’s helped me become. Someone who understands the power of perseverance and the importance of nurturing creativity, both in myself and in others.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building an audience on social media? It’s been wild. You want to hear something unbelievable? So, Christmas Eve 2022, I’m sitting there, direct messaging a friend on Instagram about Christopher Walken, about the skit on SNL from over a dozen years ago. You know the one – where he’s putting googly eyes on plants ’cause he doesn’t trust them? Yeah, that one.

Anyway, I put the skit up via an Instagram reel on my account, not thinking much of it. Some other friends saw it and shared it and by the new year, it had about 2000 views. Next thing I know, bam! The reel goes viral. We’re talking 3 MILLION accounts reached! Some very big accounts shared it, too. Can you believe it? I got a bunch of new followers and they stuck around. Just like that, my following exploded.

You never know who’s going to see your stuff or how it’ll land. Sometimes the most random thing just vibes with people.

So, for anyone just starting out, here’s my two cents:

First off, just be you. Post regularly, but only if it’s genuine. People can smell fake a mile away, whether they’ll acknowledge it or not.

Don’t be shy about jumping into conversations. Leave comments, react to what holds your attention. It’s called social media for a reason, right? Oh, and here’s a big one – keep it as positive as you can. There’s enough doom and gloom out there these days. I try to keep my feed a semi-happy place. Not in a fake way, just…try to keep focusing on the good stuff.

And as the cliche goes, patience is key. Sometimes you blow up overnight, sometimes it’s a slow burn. Just keep doing your thing.

Remember that social media’s just another way to share what you love! I treat Instagram like a community. You can make it as big or as little as you wish. I’ve made some priceless friendships and connections, and I’ve been offered some glorious opportunities along the way. Make art and try to share what gets you excited, and that will come through in your posts. Who knows? Your next random idea could be the one that takes off.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rachaeltyrell.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrachaeltyrell/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachaeltyrell1982/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8tB4t0DZkECV7ft5jtArRg
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/rachael-tyrell-446040600