October’s Phoenix Art Studio Newsletter

As we close September, we also say goodbye to one season and welcome another. Summer has officially come to an end, making way for the colors, comforts, and changes of fall.

Pumpkin spice fills the air, temperatures begin to cool, and the season seems to invite us to slow down and notice the beauty around us. There is something special about watching nature transform and being reminded that change can be beautiful.

This October, I encourage you to embrace the season and find your own way to create. Decorate your home for fall, design the perfect costume, try something new, take an adventure, or simply make time to enjoy the people and moments that bring you joy.

Creativity doesn’t always require a canvas. Sometimes, it is simply how we choose to experience the world around us.

There is art in every season of becoming.

Earring and Earring Holder

Even your earrings deserve to be displayed in style.

Art doesn’t always have to hang on a wall. Sometimes, it can become part of the everyday objects that bring beauty and personality into our spaces.

My handcrafted wire earring holders are designed to be both artistic and functional. Each piece is made with non-toxic, corrosion-resistant anodized wire and finished with a beautiful African Padauk wood base creating a unique place to display your favorite earrings while adding a piece of art to your space.

And because October is all about getting creative, I’m sharing a little something special with you.

Throughout October, receive 20% off your purchase by using code OCTOBER20OFF at checkout on my website.

Bring a little art into the everyday because even the smallest spaces can become a canvas.

Chicago

When I traveled to Chicago, I experienced more than I could have imagined.

I was honored to be a part of the African Festival of Chicago, where my work became part of a larger celebration of culture, education, and community. Being surrounded by so many expressions of heritage reminded me that art is its own language. We may come from different places and carry different stories, but through art, we can find something that connects us.

My journey through Chicago didn’t end there. I also had the opportunity to visit the Barack Obama Presidential Center. It was more than a place to visit-it was an experience rooted in history, education, art, and community. From the paintings and memorabilia to the stories honoring Chicago’s history, I was reminded of the many ways art helps us preserve the people, places, and moments that shape us.

One of the most meaningful moments of my trip was meeting acclaimed sculptor Woodrow Nash. I have known of his work through my own artistic journey, including seeing his art connected to the same Wichita gallery where I have exhibited. Meeting him in person felt like a full-circle moment. I had the opportunity to talk with him about his journey as an artist and even step inside his workspace.

Chicago was truly a reminder that when we create, we become part of a story much bigger than ourselves.

Washington DC

Chicago wasn’t the only place my art took me. Shortly after returning, I found myself in Washington, D.C.

The 55th Annual Legislative Conference was a powerful statement of representation. Leaders, advocates, professionals, students, and changemakers from across the country walked through the gallery. I had conversations about our experiences, our history, and the importance of creating spaces where Black people can come together, reflect, connect, and simply be present.

But one of the most meaningful moments of my time in D.C. happened somewhere much quieter.

During a private house show, a woman walked up to one of my paintings and simply stood there. As she looked at the piece, tears began to roll down her face. When I asked what she was feeling, she shared that she had connected with the painting emotionally. In that moment, I could see hope. I could feel purpose.

As artists, we create from our own experiences, emotions, and stories, but once the work leaves our hands, it can become something entirely different for the person standing in front of it. They may see their own story, remember someone they love, find healing, or discover an emotion they didn’t know they needed to release.

That is the power of art.

The Phoenix Mobile Has Risen!

The Phoenix Mobile is officially complete!

After my car accident, I was fortunate to be able to get a new car. I was grateful, but as I drove it, I couldn’t help feeling like something was missing.

My emblem. My art. A little piece of me.

Now, the Phoenix has officially found its new home. My car is wrapped with my Phoenix artwork and information, turning something I use every day into another canvas for creativity.

So, if you happen to see the Phoenix Mobile out in the world, don’t forget to wave, say hello, and connect with me!

The Phoenix is officially back on the road.

Rhea Rose was born in Los Angeles, CA. She is of Mexican, African, Sicilian and Turkish descent and was adopted at 6 months by a military family. She grew up in 4 different U.S. states and 2 countries.

She spent her childhood creating art in many facets but was set on becoming a doctor. She graduated high school with a full scholarship to study veterinary medicine at Tuskegee University.

She forewent the scholarship to be a stay-at-home mom , but it wasn’t long before her creativity led her to begin the Phoenix Art Studio in 2000 at the age of 18.

Any formal training is attributed to 2 years of high school at the Suitland, MD advanced Visual and Performing Arts Program. She then received an Associates in Commercial Arts from Central Texas College at the age of 26.

Rhea began her artistic career as a portrait artist, but by apprenticing under professionals in different specialties she became proficient in mural painting, face painting, illustration and art instruction.

She is currently a lead teacher at the Cordovan Art Schools, leading efforts to teach underprivileged youth in and outside of incarceration, and traveling the world with her personal art alongside renowned artist Frank Frazier.