Artist Talk - Rachael Simon

Rachael is a Maryland-based artist who specializes in stained glass. With an associates degree in graphic design and a bachelors degree in fine art, Rachael merges her skills to create her own patterns and then brings them to life! Her work ranges from traditional to fun and quirky and everything in between.
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Other passions of Rachael’s include mixed media collage, watercolor and all kinds of recycled/upcycled projects. With the help of her husband, Jared (who works in wood and metal), there is no limit to creativity!

We had a chat with Rachael to learn a little more about who she is and who inspires her.  Keep reading to learn more about this artist.

How and when did you get started with your craft? 
About three years ago my mother-in-law handed down to me a lot of the basic tools needed to get started with making stained glass.  With a lot of Youtube tutorials and patience, my journey in stained glass was underway!

What do you enjoy most about your art?
The finished product is what I enjoy most.  It can be frustrating working with glass and sometimes it's hard to envision the finished product.  I also love when others see something that I made and they just have to have it!  It's a great feeling as an artist to make something that could bring joy to others.

What would you tell an artist just starting on their journey?
Have patience, a lot of it.  And be kind to yourself.

Who are some artists and makers that inspire you?
Dale Chihuly is one of my favorite glass artists.  I'm also a big fan of some of the all-time greats - Alexander Calder, Auguste Rodin and Francisco Goya.

What are your favorite things to do when you are not working?
I enjoy cooking, making collages and going for walks.