A few years ago, while walking across a bridge over the James River, I watched a group of kayakers glide beneath me. In that moment, I realized how much of my life I had spent on the shore, watching others embrace experiences I was hesitant to pursue myself. I decided it was time to step off the sidelines and become an active participant in my own life—to take risks, embrace the unknown, and experience all that life has to offer. That shift in perspective transformed not only how I live, but how I approach my art. Creating became an extension of that decision: a way to explore, experiment, embrace vulnerability, and engage more fully with the world around me.
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Rachel Loughlin is a Richmond, Virginia–based artist, designer, and published poet whose work explores the intersection of nature, language, and lived experience. I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Illustration and have spent many years working as a graphic designer, developing a strong foundation in composition, color, and visual storytelling.
In my painting practice, I draw inspiration from the natural world, often weaving elements of my poetry into my work. I frequently paint outdoors, seeking the immediacy and energy of working directly within the landscape. As an avid kayaker, I especially love discovering hidden places along the water—quiet, unexpected spaces that become sources of imagery, reflection, and inspiration.
My connection to Richmond extends into community service and public art. I served on the Board of Directors of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and painted public murals with Arts in the Alley, contributing my creativity to shared community spaces.
I live in Richmond with my two teenagers and two dogs. I enjoy exploring the James River and downtown Richmond, gardening, running, and practicing yoga outdoors. These experiences—rooted in nature, community, movement, discovery, and poetry—continually shape my evolving body of work and deepen my connection to the landscape.
