Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Renata Rodrigues. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Renata, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

I think everyone sees risk differently. I strive for what I want and I take the necessary measures to get to where I want to be, which involves, most of the time, being out of my comfort zone. I moved from Brazil to Australia when I was 21 years old. My English was very poor and I also didn’t have a lot of money or parents that could support me financially. I was working as a graphic designer in Sao Paulo in a multinational company. Due to long working hours doing digital photo restoration, I developed tendinitis on my wrist, elbow and shoulder, what put me off work. So I saw my opportunity and I left my job, sold my car, cleaned my bank account and travelled to Sydney with enough money for 3 months of English school. I studied hard, I worked hard in whatever job I could get and I never went back. That was the beginning of many years of travels, challenges, different jobs, friendships and life experiences. I am so glad I did it. It allowed me to experience many cultures, be independent and to get to know my worth and what I bring to the table.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am Renata Rodrigues, born and raised in Brazil, started in art as a graphic designer and since 2016 went analog. My main medium is acrylics and my works range from very small paintings to big murals, public art, live painting, and bits and pieces of other creative endeavors. I also teach fundamental drawing privately and love to help teenagers to get prepared for art school and/or put portfolios together. Commissions are my favorite to paint as I love to bring client’s ideas to life and create artworks that give the public all kinds of feelings. I see myself as a conceptual artist and I enjoy telling a story with my paintings. The way I do one thing is the way I do everything. I am very eager to be the best I can be at each given task.
You can view some of my work in studio 3 at The Peach, Palm Beach County’s new Art Collective. I highly recommend you visit this art hub and get involved if you are a creative yourself. They are doing great things for the art scene.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I moved to USA, in 2016, it was the beginning of my journey back into drawing and painting, what I haven’t done in a few years. With the guidance of my husband Craig, also a West Palm Beach local artist, and many hours of drawing, I slowly got my rusty hand back to work and started creating my first series. Moving countries and starting life again can be scary, but if you put time into what you want, chances are in your favor.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I think everyone enjoy seeing art around the cities. And I think most of us understand how having art around the home enrich our souls and brighten our days. Events and classes where the public can have fun creating art are always a hit in every city I ever lived in.
Participation on these events is a must if you want them to keep happening.
It doesn’t matter if you are “good” at it or think you are not. Take a chance to do something out of your comfort zone. It’s fun!
Buy local! Art makes great thoughtful presents. Commission an artist to make you something special and original.
More public art calls, I love those! I enjoy very much seeing my art where the public can have access to it.
More live painting at events, whenever I do a live gig I can feel how much people enjoy the interaction with the artists and the unraveling of an idea before their eyes. It’s truly magical. The kids go crazy about it!
Art talks! Artists supporting other artists! We grow together ❤️

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @renatarodriguesart
• Other: Text me and let’s meet! 5612559525