Rochelle began her formal artistic training in the Foundation Program at Maine College of Art, initially majoring in photography, before acquiring her BFA in Painting and Printmaking from Lyme Academy College of Fine Art in Old Lyme, CT. There, she immersed herself in the foundational principles of art – exploring drawing, painting, and sculpture while also gaining a deep understanding of methods, materials, color theory, anatomy, and art history.

Following art school, Rochelle attended Hartford International University for Religion and Peace, (formerly Hartford Seminary) earning an MA in Religious Studies and Spirituality. There, She focused on feminist theology, chaplaincy, and interfaith peacebuilding. Rochelle looks to the natural world for beauty and irony to make art inspired by her deep spiritual exploration and personal practice.

Currently, Rochelle’s artistic exploration has steered her towards the serenity and simplicity of Zen Buddhism, specifically the Ensō tradition of circle drawing. Inspired by this tradition and philosophy, she reflects on themes of unity, emptiness, and infinity, forging a meditative link between disciplined craftsmanship, pure pigment, and Zen practice.

Rochelle finds deep inspiration in the works of Jenny Saville, Édouard Vuillard, Mark Rothko, Barbara Kruger, and Thich Nhat Hanh. She is also grateful for the opportunity to have studied with renowned painter Henry Finkelstein and master draftsman Dean Keller.

Oh, and she’s managed to pick up a few awards along the way, including a couple of nods from the Connecticut Women Artist’s Association.