Rachel Day, also known as Ray Day, is a New York City based artist. Following in her grandmother’s footsteps, she began creating art as soon as she could hold a paint brush. Her ‘Mamaw Opal’ introduced her to a range of mediums like acrylic paint, watercolor, charcoal, and even sewing. She has carried that passion from high school in Maryland to college while studying abroad in Barcelona. Rachel continues to experiment with new mediums and draws inspiration from the vibrancy of the world around her.
She is the illustrator of a published children's book, Every Moment Matters , which has appeared on Fox 5 News, partnered with the NBA's Washington Wizards for a Literacy Night book singing, and been featured in The Scout Guide Alexandria.
About the Artist.
Artist Statement
I create paintings, oil pastel works, and digital illustrations that hold onto small moments of color, light, and joy that are easy to overlook. Like the way afternoon light falls across a fruit market stand, the warmth and ease your body feels when visiting your family home, or the even the delicious meal when the flash gives away your not-so-sly restaurant photo. My work begins with attention, as staying present is a continued practice for me, and then I allow the subject dictate the medium.
Commissioned work holds a particular significance in my practice. I see these projects as collaborations: a client brings an idea, a memory, or a feeling, and together we develop it into something larger. The result is that they get an artwork that represents their vision, captures the intention, and seamlessly fits into the intended space; and I get to know someone deeper and see the world through their eyes.
At its core, my work is guided by a simple belief: beauty and joy are everywhere. Living in New York City and traveling the world is a privilege, constantly witnessing unforgettable places and moments. My practice is an ongoing attempt to capture exactly that, like a souvenir or postcard.
Ray Day
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