I am an artist currently based in Kansas City, MO. My work combines fashion and costume with video, performance and installation to communicate ideas about culture, identity and the body. I attempt to describe my identity that exists amidst the mixed characteristics of multiple extremes. Personal history plays a large role in my art making. I was born and raised in southern California by my mother and the Puerto Rican side of the family, we would often take trips to visit my younger brother who was in a constant care medical facility because of a hospital accident that lead to brain damage. Growing up in a female dominated Puerto Rican family much of my work deals with identifying myself both as a Puerto Rican woman and a normal American. Though my art I am exploring the meaning of clothing, costume, and the body in relation to culture and identity. The body acts as a catalyst for my work. The use of my body is important when referring to my histories. The physical body has so many limitations and is easily changed and characterized by time, which can be further emphasized through clothing props or mental states. I focus on these things because I feel that the woman is constantly limited by external physical appearance and I am constantly reminded of the physical limitations that I see in my brother. I am able to impose these limitations on myself and understand them though the costumes and art I create._____________________________ In 2010 I participated in the New York Studio Residency Program and showed work in the spring 2010 "You Made Me Do This" exhibition. While in New York I also interned for Christian Joy. Back in Kansas City, I showcased a ten-piece collection for my second year with the West 18th St Fashion Show and designed a quick-change costume for the Pulse Performing Arts Center. In 2009 I showcased collections in the Restyle Runway Fashion Show hosted by Friends of JCDS as well as the West 18th St Fashion Show hosted by Birdies. I also began to do freelance work, accepting a commission for Cody Critcheloe, and submitted to the World of Wearable Art in New Zealand. In 2006 my work was shown in the Bobby Greenfield Gallery at the Bergamot Art Station in Santa Monica as part of the Spotlight Awards, which highlights emerging artist in Southern California. click here to view my resume© 2011 Rachel Rolon |
 photograph by Tommy Kha |
