About Me
Rianna Butcher
A dedicated and versatile artist currently studying Studio Art with a Minor in Art History at Indiana University, Bloomington. As I approach the completion of my Bachelor of Arts in 2026, I continue to expand my artistic practice across a wide range of mediums, including ceramics, sculpture, mixed-media, painting, and digital platforms. From a young age, I’ve been drawn to creative exploration, and over time, this curiosity blossomed into a deep passion for expressing identity, memory, and connection through art. Each piece I create is an invitation to explore new perspectives, offering rich colors and conceptual depth to evoke thought and spark conversation.
Artist Statement
As an artist, I explore themes of identity, memory, and connection through a diverse range of mediums, including ceramics, sculpture, mixed media, painting, and digital art. My work is deeply influenced by my experiences as a person of color, drawing on both personal narratives and collective histories to inform my creative expression. I use art as a tool to communicate complex emotions and ideas that transcend language, aiming to create spaces for reflection, dialogue, and connection.
My creative process is intuitive and experimental, often blending traditional techniques with contemporary approaches. Whether working with clay, digital tools, or mixed media, I seek to push the boundaries of each medium, allowing my work to evolve organically. Each piece I create is a reflection of my ongoing exploration of self, culture, and the world around me, inviting viewers to engage with the work in a meaningful way. Through my art, I strive to foster empathy, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the shared human experience.
More...
Beyond the canvas, I have found myself embracing leadership roles that merge art with community engagement. I’ve had the privilege of managing social media for renowned author Maurice Broaddus, leading creative programming at Berkshire United Sports Camp, and contributing to event coordination and art-related projects like “Spirit Folks” published in Uncanny Magazine. My portfolio reflects my versatility, with works that blend traditional and digital techniques, including digital illustrations, mixed-media pieces, and sculpture. Something unique about me is that my creative practice isn't limited to just visual art—it's deeply intertwined with my work as a storyteller and educator, making art an ever-evolving way to connect, communicate, and inspire others. I’m always looking for new ways to innovate, grow, and push the boundaries of my craft.
Education
Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
Bachelor of Arts, Major in Studio Art
Minor in Art History
2022 – Present (Expected May 2026)
My studies have provided me with a strong foundation in both traditional and contemporary art techniques, allowing me to explore various mediums such as ceramics, sculpture, mixed media, and painting. Through my coursework, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of art history, its influence on modern practices, and the intersection of visual culture with societal issues. I’ve also gained proficiency in digital art tools like Procreate and Adobe Illustrator, expanding my creative process and enhancing my ability to communicate through multiple mediums. These experiences have shaped my approach to art, enabling me to think critically and experiment with new ideas, all while refining my technical skills.
Relevant Experience
Social Media Coordinator
Maurice Broaddus (Author), Indianapolis, IN
July 2018 - Present
-
Designed and implemented a cohesive social media strategy, aligning brand identity across platforms to boost engagement and visibility.
-
Assisted in visual content creation to enhance author branding and audience engagement, supporting multiple writing projects.
-
Organized and coordinated events, including book signings and marketing campaigns, to promote the author’s work.
Head of Arts and Crafts Program
Berkshire United Sports Camp, Sheffield, MA
June 2024 – August 2024
-
Planned all arts and crafts programming and delivered engaging presentations with hands-on demonstrations. Creating age-appropriate activities that encouraged creativity and hands-on skill development.
-
Managed supplies and set up design workspaces, maintaining an organized, supportive environment for young artists.
Event Coordinator
Blossom Brilliance Society, Bloomington, IN
November 2024 – Present
-
Organize networking events, panel discussions, and workshops that empower and connect members.
-
Lead creative activities and provide engaging demonstrations that inspire and educate attendees.
Design Skills
Digital art, Graphic Design (Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Canva), Illustration, Painting (oil, acrylic, watercolor), Sculpture, Ceramics, Kiln Building, Mixed Media, Color Theory,
Technology/Computer Skills
HTML, CSS, Python, Web Design,Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), Adobe Premiere Pro, Midjourney, RunwayML
Soft Skills
Creativity, Communication, Time Management, Active Listening, Customer Service, Organization, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving. Event Planning