Lauren Rinaldi
On the Edge of Comfort, 2024
Oil on canvas
20 x 16"

Artist Statement
Lauren Rinaldi creates art that explores the intersection and blurring of objectification, power, and empowerment. Through her oil paintings, mixed media drawings, and sketches, she delves into themes of intimacy, gaze, body image, sexuality, and self-identity. Drawing inspiration from the women in her life, Rinaldi intertwines their experiences with her own to craft a collective narrative that both celebrates women and acknowledges the challenges they face. Although her portraits often use her own body as a model, they convey stories of universal significance in today's world. Rinaldi detaches the imagery from self-portraits or specific individuals, instead presenting psychological representations that highlight societal pressures on women and the numerous, often conflicting, roles and expectations they navigate.

Artist Bio
Lauren Rinaldi (b. 1983, Brooklyn, NY) is an American artist living and working in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She studied painting and drawing at Tyler School of Art, where she earned her BFA in 2006. Since then, her solo shows have included Second Shift (2022); Representative (2020); Still Standing (2018); Hunger of the Cheeky Sisters (2015); At Arm's Length (2014); and An Accidental Masterpiece (2011), all at Paradigm Gallery + Studio in Philadelphia and she has exhibited her work extensively in group shows throughout the United States. In 2012, Rinaldi completed The City of Philadelphia's Mural Arts Program's Training Program and she then apprenticed under muralist Cesar Viveros. She has since worked on a number of public and private murals in the city. In addition to her active studio practice, Lauren serves as Philadelphia City Councilmember Rue Landau's Arts & Culture Liaison, is a mother, and is involved in local political organizing and volunteering.

laurenrinaldi.com