“Being in sync with our feelings equips us to make more authentic and fulfilling decisions.”

- Renata Rush

BIO

Renata Rush, a Brazilian-American artist born in Rio de Janeiro and currently based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, channels her exploration of self-liberation and authenticity through a distinct visual language that merges abstraction with organic forms. Her work, marked by vibrant colors, expressive mark-making, and complex textural layers, evokes the fluidity and resilience found in nature. Rush’s compositions often echo the natural world, with abstract shapes reminiscent of plant life, reflecting a balance between structure and spontaneity, emotion and form.

Originally trained as a mechanical engineer, Rush's transition into the arts symbolizes a bold departure from societal expectations, as she embraces the freedom to pursue her true passion. Her work is not only a personal journey of discovery but an invitation for viewers to explore their own inner landscapes, guided by the organic patterns and textures in her art. This duality between the natural and the emotional is central to her practice, where abstraction is grounded in the recognizable forms of nature, suggesting both growth and transformation.

Working from her light-filled studio, which overlooks a serene pond, Rush finds her creative process intimately connected to her environment. The meditative atmosphere of her workspace mirrors the organic forms that populate her canvases, providing both inspiration and a sense of fluidity to her compositions. As she completes her portfolio for the Milan Art Institute’s Mastery Program, Rush is also poised to engage in public art, with a particular interest in mural painting as a means of integrating her nature-inspired abstractions into community spaces.

Rush’s work stands at the intersection of personal authenticity and the universal rhythms of the natural world, offering a reflective and emotionally resonant exploration of self and nature. Her artistic trajectory places her within the contemporary discourse of abstract expressionism, where the organic meets the abstract in the pursuit of truth and personal freedom.

Artist Statement

My art delves into the depths of imagination and emotion, constructing visual narratives that encourage viewers to explore their personal truths. Through layered textures and bold colors, I aim to evoke raw emotions and uncover the resilient spirit within us all. Inspired by nature’s untamed beauty, I blend abstraction and realism to reflect the intricate dance between internal landscapes and external realities. My work is designed to foster self-acceptance, encouraging a brave exploration of self and a discovery of beauty in both adversity and triumph. By sparking emotional connection, I hope to inspire transformative journeys toward personal freedom and authenticity.

My Happy Place