From Memory

Rae Brown

presented by Walk In

November 2 - December 1, 2024

From the Artist:

“I want viewers to immerse themselves in my paintings, finding their own journey within the stories I tell. Each piece invites you to explore, creating a sense of calm and excitement, like wandering through a maze of adventures.

Though I’m not a writer, I approach painting like storytelling—reluctant to finish because I enjoy unfolding the narrative. I often include figures in my work to bring it to life, allowing others to step into the scenes I’ve created.

Some of my work, like Minimum Wage and Lemon Aide, offers political commentary on the greed and turmoil in today's world. These stories need to be told, even when they’re difficult. I express these emotions through the faces in my paintings, hoping to convey what I feel when words aren’t enough.”

Artist Bio

I’ve always been drawn to capturing the beauty around me, from childhood memories to the landscapes that shape my life. Moving from Texas to Oregon at nine, I fell in love with the natural beauty—the snow, cherry blossoms, and lush greenery—and that inspired my desire to paint.

As a child, I loved painting but didn’t have many supplies. It wasn’t until later in life, after a job loss, that I rediscovered my passion for art. A simple doodle on my mom’s mail reignited my love for creating, and she and my brother gifted me my first real set of paints. I began by making greeting cards and eventually transitioned to larger works, which led to my first gallery show in Portland’s Pearl District.

Though I spent years balancing art with other jobs, I’ve now committed myself to painting full-time in retirement. I’m a self-taught artist, and my studio days are long, often stretching into the early hours, but I wouldn’t have it any other way."

These revisions focus on clarity and simplicity while maintaining the essence of the original text.

Walk In presents this exhibition in collaboration with Well Well Projects.