Today we’d like to introduce you to Elynne Rosenfeld.
Hi Elynne, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been a professional painter for all my adult life, starting as an undergrad with a BA in Art from Rice University, followed by an MFA in painting from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. From there I moved to Philadelphia, where I found myself quickly assimilated into its art scene, affiliated with commercial galleries as well as alternative spaces. Still in my 20’s I became chapter president of Artists Equity Association which, at the time was a vital national organization specializing in advocacy issues for professionals. The local chapter alone had over 400 members and we were lobbying primarily for artists’ rights, health hazard labeling info, fighting fees for shows etc. This was all in a climate in which the arts were considered a vital part of life in the US.. But the art scene was a changing landscape in which government grants dried up and interest in artist welfare waned.
Many galleries went out of business in the 80’s and 90’s. I became co-director of an artist-run cooperative, ArtForms and remained there for 10 years until it also folded. At ArtForms I enjoyed two solo shows. While there we planned community events such as musical performances and lectures. Finally, we just couldn’t keep up with the rising rent.
In times without affiliation I steadfastly remained a painter. I had many solo and group shows in alternative venues. Though there seemed to be a dearth of venues available, I stayed the course. Then in 2016 I was asked to direct a new gallery at Salus University in Elkins Park. I was happy to bring various art organizations to light in group shows at the venue. These include ArtSisters, PA Mosaic Society, 3rd Street Gallery and Montgomery County Guild of Professional Artists (MCGOPA). I made two strong connections at that time – was invited to join 3rd Street Gallery where I remained until the pandemic. Then in 2021, when folks were going back to live meetings (as opposed to Zoom) I was invited to join MCGOPA. This was an easy decision as the group’s mission is to bring fine art to the community. Recently I became president of the organization which is now in our 30th year. In addition to this, I am part of Cerulean Art Collective where I am getting ready for my second solo show. Presently, while still in a kind of dessicated art environment (with art colleges and institutions closing doors for lack of funding) I am happy to report a rigorous exhibition schedule, having been invited to show in alternative spaces such as The Art Trust, CFEVA’s gallery at the University City Science Center, InLiquid’s satellite gallery at Wanamaker House as well as university galleries with MCGOPA, including the Henry Gallery at Penn State Malvern and the Fine Arts Center Gallery at Montgomery County Community College just in the past year.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As stated earlier, the road has not been smooth because the art scene has systematically dwindled in Philly as it has in many vital cities, with funding drying up and art seen as less and less of a priority for daily life.
I struggled with the idea of departing art for a more lucrative profession, but it was not something I could realistically do, as I am and have always been an artist with every fiber of my being.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My paintings have always been highly textural. I developed a style based on layered spirals creating richly colored compositions which over the years have toggled from pure abstraction to figurative subject matter. In recent years the texture has become even more prominently featured, combining shattered tempered glass and glass beads along with the layered acrylic spirals. One of the things I am most proud of has been the move away from art ‘ego’ into a mindset of wanting to give something to others through my art. I have been a master level reiki for the past 20 years and into the spirals I infuse symbols that have healing intention. So when a viewer spends time with my work, there is gratitude, peace and positive purpose available to be had. What sets me apart from others, then is work that many believe to be highly inventive yet at the same time, gives something back to the beholder. It is not so dependent on the myth of fame.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
For artists that are just starting out I would caution you to have a backup plan! While I have no regrets about the road I have travelled, I do believe that starting out as a fine artist in 2026 is going to be a very rough road. Do art, be intrepid about creating, but also learn something else that is both satisfying and lucrative. Make sure the alternative route you explore is state of the art – in other words something that does not threaten to become obsolete in a few years. The world is ever-changing and art itself is being supplanted by AI to a growing extent. So do your art for your own nourishment. The success you achieve will be the gravy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elynnerosenfeld.com
- Instagram: elynnerosenfeld
- Facebook: ElynneRosenfeldArtist
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elynne-rosenfeld-ab99b97/
- Other: https://www.inliquid.org/artist/rosenfeld-elynne
