Rooted in an intuitive process and a dynamic studio practice, Rachael Van Dyke’s contemporary painting balances abstraction and narrative with immediacy. Created from a need for movement -physically, emotionally and geographically, Van Dyke’s work reflects her time living off the grid in the Blue Ridge Mountains and her passion for “place” specific work through residencies around the world. These residencies create new boundaries for her work and encourage an alteration of technique and expression. These boundaries also create stimulation as she is forced to understand and come to terms with her limitations. Being open to a new color palette or a new visual language to express the land and culture is necessary. Rachael chooses to explore the region through hiking or bicycling, visiting museums and historic sites, and trying her hand at engaging with local residents. Each body of work is influenced by place and tells a story of the people and land she’s encountered.