Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhianna ((Rhi)) Gonzales
Hi Rhi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a trauma informed yoga instructor and collage artist local to Cleveland,Ohio. I began working in community mental health in 2020 and was drawn to a trauma informed approach which then led to completing my yoga teacher training in 2023. I have been an artist since I could hold a pencil and it has always been therapeutic to me. As I have grown I’ve tried new mediums trying to find the art form that feels meditative and flows. I began collaging in 2017 by making vision boards and this eventually evolved into me making really deep collage art that reflected my emotions and inner dialogue. I use collage art to take time to reflect and process trauma and daily stressors. I now host monthly collage gatherings in that help others do the same.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The struggles I’ve experienced have been mostly internal. I think sharing art is such a vulnerable thing to do. These creations I make from scrap paper tell a story and letting myself be seen and heard in this way has been a challenge. I had to really learn to open up and not fear that. But I think there are people that can see a piece of my art and relate to it in their own way and that has helped me share more and to connect deeper to my art.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in collage art. I make emotional pieces that are a reflection of my inner struggles or thoughts and experiences. I am really proud of the story my art tells and how I layer each piece with recycled magazines and scraps of paper. All of my materials are donated or bought second hand.
What makes you happy?
Finding a creative outlet makes me happy. Whether it be making art or sharing art, I find joy in it all. I host collage nights in Cleveland and being able to share this art practice has been so fun and has brought me so much joy. Making collage is therapeutic to me and I can get lost in it for hours.
Pricing:
- Prints 5×7 – $20
- Prints 8×10- $25
- Originals 5×7- $45
- Originals 8×10- $75
- Commissions or larger pieces vary: $75-$200
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/self.rhiflective.arts
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SelfRhiflectiveArts
Image Credits
Arieonna McCall-Dube – Extraordinaire Photos
