Rachael Padilla

On the easel

It’s finished! The first step in a new direction is the hardest part!

On the easel

I finally got my brush to the canvas! I almost always paint from a reference photo. I’ve really had to talk myself into painting something that’s from my mind. Even if based in reality, or memo...

Waiting to paint

Trying new things is hard. 

On the easel

“The Long Way Home (Here Come the Freaks)”. I’ll refine some details of my sketch, then it’s time to start painting!

Determination

I could really go for an ice cream right now. 

But it's been two weeks since I've committed to a vision that requires I don't have one. 

I realize that two weeks is no big dea...

Weigh in Wednesday

I'm two weeks in! Things are progressing!

Tuesday Update!

My Conch Necklace

Face Chain

 A lovely and unique new piece of jewelry!

Raw materials!

Opportunities for raw materials sometimes present themselves! I was out for a walk when I came across several goose feathers. I collected 5 in total. They will definitely become part of some kind o...

Fun in the sun!

Summer time! A little talkin', a little floatin', a little sunnin'!

In the sketch book

When I was a kid, we had a Volkswagen Rabbit. It was bright green, and consistently unreliable. Especially for the long commute into town, 30 miles away. We must have looked ridiculous! Often pilin...

Weigh in Wednesday!

It's been a week and I'm seeing results! 

There are so many aspects of thought, planning and work going into this project. This is a rare opportunity to change my body to better fit my a...

Tuesday Update!

I am becoming the Coyote! 

On the easel

Fuzzy mission complete!

Tanning My Hide

A change of diet, darker skin, and a lot of weight lifting. There are parts of this job that are easy, and others that are a bit more challenging!

Coyote Fur

In working with the second coyote fur, I've realized just how much this process had really gotten me thinking of my ancestry!

On the easel

Trying my hand at painting these fuzzy flowers!

Broody

Hens are not the only creatures that have a tendency to brood. 

Weigh-in Wednesday

Art can require sacrifice. This time around, it will take a few pounds of flesh. 

Smudge Stick and Fur

It's been difficult for me working with furs. This coyote was a living being, and I want to honor it. 

Taco Tuesday: Nerves about Fur

I've done it! I've made progress with my furs. Never mind the nerves.

In the sketch book

Planning and sketching! I really have to know what I’m creating before I begin. The coyote hides I’ve acquired are too precious to make mistakes, so I’ll continue dreaming and sketching befor...

Meditating like...

Do you have trouble meditating? Is it hard to tune in? Does your mind wander?

I guess we all have struggles with it sometimes.

Comics in the Sun!

It has been too long since I did an episode of CITS!  Today I enjoyed my new little pool and an issue of Doom Patrol!  

Night Swimming

A late night dip in my Rudi Gernreich suit was made even more interesting when I realized how fun the blacklight made it look.  

On the easel

This is the third and last of my Magdalene footage videos! 

I was recently asked about my motivation for creating/painting this imagery and the Magdalene connection. 

While I'...

On the easel

Another legend of the Magdalene has her living out her life in a cave in Marseille. After the death of Christ she fled persecution. She went by boat to present day France. The sight is to this day ...

A Reading: Awkward

I sometimes post readings of poetry and other writings that I find relatable or beautiful in some way. I have questioned why I use other people's words when I have my own. There are so many stories...

Wrapped Up

What are we wrapped up in? Would we breathe easier otherwise?