Vibrant, Abstract Realism Murals & Paintings
Artist Bio
Chanelle René is a New Jersey based, award-winning contemporary painter and mural artist. Her use of vibrant colors and painterly brush strokes in oils and mixed media often celebrate the feminine figure to create narrative and engaging works from original canvases to large scale murals. René has exhibited nationally and internationally with works held in private and public collections. Select media features include CBS Philadelphia, Cape May Magazine and The Curator’s Salon.
René has worked with several museums, education and community outreach programs such as: Smithsonian Institute Traveling Exhibition, AtlantiCare, Atlantic City Arts Foundation, Noyes Arts Garage, Appel Farm Arts & Music Center, WheatonArts, Cape May MAC, (Atlantic City) Leaders in Training Youth Workforce Development, Ocean City Arts Center, Atlantic Cape Community College
Artist Statement
Portraiture allows me to explore the complexity and nuance of the human spirit. I seek a visual embodiment of our truest self, deepest emotions and engagement with the full spectrum of modern beauty and feminine strength. I not only want to reflect myself but normalize and amplify the visibility of Black women simply being. Inspiring women of color to fall in love with themselves – with an invitation to take up space, honor their desires and nurture the Soul.
My painting process is a mix of vibrant color and expressive marks applied with intention. I layer a variety of media to create depth, contrast and surface texture in my works, including spray paint, pastel, acrylic and oil paint. These materials combine to create interest, inviting the viewer to take a closer look and discover something new. Throughout this process of layering, I discover the essence of the figure I’m rendering in a way that captures the subject’s energy and strength.
Recently, my work has expanded to include murals and public art installations with a focus on immersive community experiences and visual storytelling.
