artist statement + bio
I am inspired by everyday miracles, how one seed transforms into chamomile, another kale, how birch leaves turn into tambourines each fall, and witch hazel blooms in winter. I am awed by the everyday, when I experience life instead of skimming it, when I witness a swallowtail butterfly’s emergence, and hold my breath with hope that its wings will dry in time for its inaugural flight, before it’s snapped up by bird beak. The cyclical nature of my backyard and gardens—along with each season’s rituals in an urban landscape of neighborhood gatherings and candlelit evenings—nourish my creativity.
I write and sing and draw as a way to understand my tender yet tenacious self, as well as to repair relationships within our fragile communities. The melancholic edge of a lullaby or the beautiful ache of the blues underpin my aesthetic, originating from a place of wonder, encouraging curiosity, yet keeping a sense of humor.
Rachel Gabriel
Professionally, I have worked in communications and marketing, combining my skills as a wordsmith with my talent for connecting people and ideas. As a passionate advocate for literacy and the arts, I have taught creative writing and music to youth and adults since 2008, including at The Loft Literary Center where I was honored with an Excellence in Teaching Fellowship by student nomination.
Currently, I am at work on a historic fiction novel set in Medieval France about a real life protofeminist community. The seed of this book was planted while in residency at The Ragdale Foundation. I am for hire as a creativity coach and content editor, and seek freelance writing projects, including content development and copy writing.
I hold degrees in English, French, Art and Design, and Creative Writing, and have formal music training as a mezzo soprano. Perennial topics of fascination include gardening and phenology, contemplative spirituality and creative arts therapies, any kind of music, and all things French.