Local Art for Your Home: Rachelle Valenzuela, Oil Painter

Inspired by traditional styles and limited color palettes, local oil painter Rachelle Valenzuela fashions heartfelt, classical imagery through her lens of soft, muted tones for the home. With a sincere love for art and for people, this up-and-coming artist has dabbled in artwork most of her life. She began pursuing art full time in September 2021, and most recently took up oil painting in July 2022. She handcrafts timeless pieces that capture people, places and still life portraits in detail. 

She currently studies under professional oil painter Greg Mannheimer at the Polk          Museum of Art. In early summer 2020, she moved to Lakeland from Utah with her husband and two daughters. They quickly fell in love with Lakeland’s charm and the community. 

She works from her home studio here in our Swan City, and she continues to collaborate with her clients to create custom artwork that is meaningful for families and cohesive to the space they will display it in.

She also describes herself as an “old soul” who is drawn artistically to “vintage elements.” She draws inspiration for her artwork from old architecture, classical music and her trips abroad, including a recent trip to Paris, France. With every piece, or “happy canvas” she handpaints, she creates artwork that include personal touches that tell part of their story.

Her works feature a unique compositional variety from the intricacies of loved ones’ faces to the vibrant form of fruits and blossoms. For commission work, you can reach out to her directly on Instagram @artbychellevalenz. 

“Place art in places where people can start meaningful conversations,” she encourages.