About

Hello, and welcome to my portfolio! My name is Richelle Sandin and I'm an oil painter with an interest in the absurd. I'm a New Mexico State University Alumni, graduating with a BA in Studio Art, December of 2022. Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, I continue to reside there today. My preferred mediums include oil paints, charcoal, oil pastels, photography, graphic design, and sculpture.

Artist Statement

My art is centralized around the complicated and unsettling aspects of being human. I challenge myself to explore my mind and find ways to materialize emotions and experiences through a soul and hand that are uniquely mine. Whether it’s more direct through a mangled form of portraiture, or a less linear representation through my human based monsters, they all share stylistic aspects when it comes to color and stroke style, both of which lean into the chaotic side of things. I find painting this way quite therapeutic because it allows me to cleanse myself of the negative feelings I'm having and look back on something that makes me feel productive and proud. I truly believe that without acknowledging our past and how our experiences remain harbored in our habits, there is no way we can move forward and heal. This is something that starts with befriending the self and being honest about how life has made you feel, and change, along the way. It can be scary to confront, but it is necessary to find peace within and be able to truly offer yourself to others. Art is something that helps me channel my energy in a healthy way and communicate when I don't have the strength or exact words to explain how I feel. It has given me so much respect for myself, along with hope when I really needed it. It truly is a beautiful practice. I don’t expect my art to resonate with everyone, and I know it doesn’t, but I strive to find those in need of encouragement to go on their own journey of self-understanding and healing.