We recently had the chance to connect with Brea Rhodes and have shared our conversation below.
Brea , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
A recent moment that’s made me feel proud is that I taught my first class since my car accident earlier this year. I have a neck injury that I got from being rear ended in January. This has made even the most basic things a challenge. Being able to teach a linoleum carving class made me feel proud. I was able to share my love of printmaking and help people make some amazing art! I can’t wait to do more.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi I’m Brea! I’m a painter/printmaker from St.Cloud MN. I graduated from SCSU in 2023 with a BFA in studio art. I then went on to open Brea Rhodes art the same year. I love pop culture and translating it into art. Some of my other muses are plants and animals. I do a lot of craft fairs and consignment with my stickers, lighters, shirts, and prints. I also teach various art classes.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I would say my mentor Mary Bruno taught me the most about work. She taught me what it takes to run a successful art business. Working under her I learned a lot about the self discipline it takes to run your own business. It’s a lot of hard work and time management. It’s not just all making art, there is a lot behind the scenes. The attention to detail is also super important. Nothing is worse than laying out a bunch of type and printing a run to realize you spelt a word wrong. Slowing down and taking your time is key.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was one time I almost gave up. On my last semester of undergrad I was taking 15 credits, working full time, applying for graduate school, and had an internship. I was so overloaded and creatively drained. This caused a huge creativity block. I felt super deflated especially after receiving five denial letters. I’ve since picked myself back up and paved a new path. I still haven’t gone to grad school but I’ve started teaching independently and focusing more on my practice.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes! The public version of me is the real me! My whole life I’ve lived the motto of peace and love. You never know what somebody is going through. A smile is free and can make somebodies day.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most at peace at home in my studio. I typically have my 3 cat assistants running around “helping”. It has lots of lush green plants and vibrant art all over the walls. I’ll also normally have some music playing and an incense burning.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Breannarhodesart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachyprincezzz?igsh=cTRobmwzZG85Mw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Bjdyrk2jj/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Victoria Carpenter
