Artist Spotlight Series: Marianne Angeli Rodriguez

May 20, 2019

Artist Spotlight Series: Marianne Angeli Rodriguez

Art, Artist

By HollyPhillips

Abstract Art, Art, Artist, Covington, LA, Louisiana Artist, Marianne Angeli Rodriguez, Modern Art, Southern Artist

Sometimes art just speaks to you!

The latest feature in my Artist Spotlight Series certainly does that for me.

I am mesmerized by her vibrant and energetic works.

Enjoy getting to know

Marianne Angeli Rodriguez

Covington, Louisiana

What is your training?

I took a couple of long detours before choosing this path. When I was a child, I always gravitated towards art, making odd craft projects at home and exerting myself mostly in my art classes at school, although art was never encouraged as a career choice in my upbringing. I have a BA degree in media studies and anthropology (with intentions to follow my parent’s UN line of work). My first job out of college was at a fashion PR firm which later led me to a degree in fashion design at FIT.

I spent a couple of years in design and I loved it, and later transitioned into fashion and bridal illustration. One season, I got tired of working on a small scale, I was also itching to express imagery that was less contrived, something from my soul. So I bought a large canvas and traded my pencils for some paints and never looked back. I didn’t receive any formal fine-art training, I’m self-taught in painting and am in my fourth year working as an artist. I’ve wasted a lot of paint in the process of trying to understand color and mixing, and I’ve also covered up a lot of ugly paintings. I accept that this is part of my journey – that you have to make a lot of ‘bad’ work to arrive at the good stuff. The end of this month marks two years since opening my studio gallery.

What inspires you and your designs?

I had a nomadic childhood and lived in 6 different countries before adolescence, so I’m inspired by those unusual and exciting feelings brought on by experiencing foreign environments, new cultures. I wish to explore and sustain that notion of ‘familiar-unfamiliarity’ with my work. I’m interested in symbols, language, textiles, costumes, rituals and all things tropical, and ultimately I want to transmit a sense of delight and liveliness within each piece I create.

What is your favorite piece?

A piece that holds meaning for me, entitled’ Slice Of Paradise’, was created two years ago during a pivotal time in my stylistic development. It now hangs in the lobby of the St.Tammany Parish Hospital in my city… I practice not getting attached to the work, usually my next piece naturally becomes the favorite, and then I move on.

My favorite painting from my last series is one entitled ‘Mango Salsa’ – it screams sunshine and dining al fresco.

How has your area influenced your work?

I live in southern Louisiana, in Covington, which is an hour across the lake from New Orleans. We have something to celebrate all year-round. I love that there is such a strong will and passion to preserve and celebrate the history and culture. The subtropical climate here mirrors the climate of my home-country, the Philippines. We have hurricane season in Louisiana, and typhoon season in the Philippines. When I paint, I often reflect on the beauty of my two homes; the lush landscapes, festive chaos, vibrant colors, music, folklore etc.

What is your favorite restaurant in Covington?

I wish I could pick just one. I’ll share my favorites for those planning to visit downtown Covington – I love Lola, Meribo, Oxlot 9, The Shack and Gallagher’s.

What is your favorite cocktail?

Ramos Gin Fizz – made the best, in my opinion, by The Sazerac Bar in nola

How do you balance personal life and work?

I’m a workaholic and enjoy working every moment I can get. My husband is also an artist – a musician- so the process of creativity is always popping up and is encouraged in our household, even at random times like in the wee hours of the morning. Sunday is my reserved ‘family day’, I stay off the computer and focus on sharing quality time but I may unwind doing some painting at the end of the day. I think, for those of us who have small creative businesses, the lines between personal life and work life often overlap especially when both worlds feed each other and you find your work to be really enjoyable.

Dream trip?

Temple tour through Thailand

Dream commission?

Designing the art – textiles, wallpaper, murals – for a tropical boutique hotel by the sea

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

Palo Santo – for good vibes – I burn it in my gallery and people ALWAYS ask about it

Who is your style icon?

My mumma – she instilled an appreciation for bespoke clothing, taught me how to strike a balance between modesty and quality, and how to apply a hand of perfectionism where it matters

Mara Hoffman – I love that she designs for ,and highlights, real women, I love the poetry and inclusivity captured in her photographs, and I appreciate her drive to merge her lifestyle values with her brand.

Diane Von Furstenburg – an incredible businesswoman with a focus on philanthropy. She exudes elegance and wisdom, a true role model.

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Donna Huanca,

and Elena Stonaker – these artists’ work offer me a little something more to ponder on – about process, versatility, individuality, and creative freedom