Since childhood, I’ve always enjoyed making things and painting. My teachers encouraged me to pursue a career in art, leading me to explore various fields that have shaped my design and painting techniques. Early in my career, I worked as a textile designer and associate art director for a magazine, eventually shifting my focus to family and reigniting my passion for painting. Now, I create decorative murals and faux finishes, while also painting the beautiful landscapes of Long Island and all the wonderful things that inspire me, skillfully infusing color and texture to create a luminous tactile quality.
Where are you from? Where and what did you study?
I grew up in Queens, NY, and as our family grew we decided to leave the crowded city and move to Long Island, where we’ve lived for the past twenty-eight years. The ocean, nature, and unique Gold Coast treasures here continuously inspire me. My art education began with a scholarship to the Brooklyn Museum Art School during high school. I later graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a degree in Textile Design, studied Graphic Design at the School of Visual Arts, and earned a Bachelor of Technology from Farmingdale College, completing coursework for a business minor. I also honed my decorative painting skills by attending numerous IDAL (International Decorative Artisans League) Conventions and becoming a Salon member in 2017.
What’s your business philosophy?
My business philosophy revolves around prioritizing customer satisfaction. I begin every job by preparing samples in the exact color and style desired by the client, ensuring transparency and alignment before any work commences. This approach eliminates surprises and allows customers to know precisely what to expect. Over my twenty plus years in business, this dedication to customer happiness has not only led to satisfied clients but also fostered many meaningful friendships along the way.
Is there a person in particular that has had a substantial influence on your style?
There isn’t one particular person who has had a substantial influence on my style. Throughout my art journey, I’ve encountered many influential figures. Various artists have inspired me over the years, notably Gustav Klimt, who, like me, started as a muralist and created paintings with intricate patterns and gilded applications. Edward Hopper’s atmospheric realist portrayals and William Merritt Chase, a fellow Long Islander and renowned instructor known for his mastery of color and brushwork, have also been significant influences. Their diverse techniques and approaches have contributed to the evolution of my own unique style.
What’s something interesting or surprising about you that most people wouldn’t know just from talking to you?
From conversation alone, you wouldn’t know about the vast influences and diverse projects I’ve successfully accomplished. Like a chameleon, I can adapt my style to transform any space. I draw inspiration from the interesting places and cultures I’ve explored and the wide range of artistic endeavors I’ve undertaken.
What’s something you hope to accomplish in 2024?
In 2024, I am expanding my reach to students and, in the fall, I’ve added some new venues to teach. Additionally, I aim to apply for a residency opportunity and secure gallery representation. These milestones would provide valuable exposure for my work and offer new avenues for artistic growth and collaboration.
What’s your favorite paint color and why?
Diarylide Yellow is my favorite GOLDEN paint color. Its vibrant hue adds a striking element to any painting, and when mixed with Golden’s Phthalo Blue (Red Shade), it creates a stunning teal blue that adds depth and richness.
The two pups in your profile picture are adorable, can you tell us a bit about them?
Now that my children are grown, my loyal companions Sonny (mini poodle) and Sammy (Shih Tzu) eagerly race to the studio to keep me company. They sit beside me, as I paint for hours on end, and we all cherish our time together.
See more of Rita’s work at ritabroughton.com.
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