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Jacob Lawrence Mural by Chanelle René, Atlantic City, NJ

Vibrant, Abstract Realism Murals & Paintings

Artist Bio

Chanelle René is an award-winning, New Jersey contemporary figurative painter and mural artist. Her use of vibrant colors and painterly brushstrokes in oils and mixed media often celebrate the feminine figure to create narrative and engaging works from original canvases to large-scale murals. Chanelle has exhibited nationally and internationally with works held in private and public collections. A self-taught artist, she embraced the ‘pandemic pause’ to transition from a 20+ year career in digital marketing to become a full-time artist. A true believer that anyone can ‘shine your vibe’ at any stage of life, Chanelle’s artwork embodies endless possibilities.

Chanelle 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

Select media features include CBS Philadelphia, Cape May Magazine and The Curator’s Salon.

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.

Select Press

6ABC Philadelphia

New exhibit at NJ gallery showcases pain, joy during time of racially segregated beaches

6ABC Philadelphia

New 'Jersey Girls' art exhibit opens at African American Heritage Museum

3CBS Philadelphia

NJ artist marks Women History Month with "Pure Essence" exhibition