We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachel Kepley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachel, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
My soul feeds off of color, texture and imagination. When 17 came around and those types of life decisions were in front of me, it came down to, “where and how can I thrive as myself?” I didn’t know exactly what, where or how- but I felt if I pursued any other path in life, I would end up regretting it. I don’t even want to fathom that idea. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art can be embodied in many forms. While a huge passion of my lies in makeup, and special effects makeup artistry, that is not where it ends. I spent many years primarily working on human canvases, and lately, I’ve started to venture out into other mediums. I’m still learning, growing and developing my skills each day, and I think that’s what I’m most excited about. There are limitless possibilities and opportunities as long as I am willing to go after them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to hit up vintage shops, antique stores, or any ok’ thrift store. Repurposing material and giving a “new life” to not-new items is incredibly enjoyable for me. So, let’s take a road trip up the coast, stop at all the fun shops we want to along the way. I’d love to find some local art and jewelry, then find the best Thai food in town.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
All of the other artists I’ve met along my path- any amazing soul that gave me their time, let me borrow a camera, allowed me to work on their projects, or experimented on a shoot with me. Small gestures that really aren’t small at all. Those can turning points in an artists life. Thank you, seriously.

Website: Www.Rachelkepley.com
Instagram: @the2amartist

Image Credits
Hailey Christensen

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.