Nate Rhoads
Nate Rhoads, 28
From Stafford, VA, Nate Rhoads
brings a unique blend of academic and artistic backgrounds. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Mary Washington and an Associate’s degree from Germanna Community College.
Nate’s artwork explores a captivating contrast of life and death. Her themes delve into navigating peace in afterlife, grief from the left behind, and imaginative coping mechanisms , yet her style retains a childlike wonder and a sense of storytelling. This juxtaposition invites viewers on a journey that is both introspective and hopeful.
acrylic, watercolor, and some clay.
In a world of late stage capitalism, the rise of fascism, and global warming, and as of 2024, the current genocide, I’m not sure there is much to say.
I never felt like I belonged, so I created worlds in which I did. I’ve always had an overactive imagination, and painting offered an escape. My art style is heavily influenced by Studio Ghibli films, as well as a variety of manga comic and video game art. Despite my generally morose outlook on the world, I have somehow managed to develop a narrative, illustrative style that captures the essence of hope and optimism through the use of fluid lines, dynamic color, and vivid lighting.
The themes of death became a main focus of my work pre pandemic when a friend killed himself in a rather violent manner. I adapted to the situation by pretending he was alive somewhere and I painted the places I imagined he went. As I get older, the versions of him change as my opinions do. I don’t even paint him that much anymore. A ghostly figure has emerged and seems to has taken his place. Somehow an ill-planned attempt to preserve the dead has turned into a multi themed juxtaposition. Death of democracy, the environment, relationships, friendships, of yourself. It’s constantly happening. Death is a constant part of life, and a great equalizer of all. Everything is connected, we will all meet death one day.
But for those who need to know, I’m just a grumpy queer who likes to hide in her studio with her blankets, books, and paints.
