The Ohio Artist Registry (OAR) is an exciting opportunity for artists to share their work, connect with the creative community, and establish an online presence—all on a free, virtual platform! The OAR encourages artists working in all art forms, throughout Ohio and beyond, to create a profile, which allows them to better promote themselves and their work. Being listed in the OAR provides artists with new opportunities to share their work with clients, galleries, patrons, and audiences. A listing in the OAR does not confer an endorsement, approval, or verification by the Ohio Arts Council.
For more information, contact Kathy Signorino, artist programs director, at kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov or 614-728-6140.
2024 Ohio Artist Registry Juried Exhibition
Renee Radebaugh
Bio
Renee grew up in rural Appalachia in southeast Ohio as a coal miner’s daughter. While not defined by this, the realities of life in rural Appalachia have undoubtedly influenced her as an artist. A survivor and advocate for mental health, she strives endlessly to use her art as an alternative voice to bring awareness to the strife, suffering, and stigma that are associated with such adversities. Only through open discourse can tangible change occur.
A graduate of Ohio University, where she studied World Religions with an emphasis on Islamic studies and the MENA region, religion and it’s expression or suppression throughout the region is also an area of particular interest. Growing up in a conservative Baptist family left a distinct impression on her though she has long since found her own path which deviated dramatically from that of her family.
Artist Statement
By opening the windows into my experiences as a survivor and advocate, I hope that the images that I create may tell a story. These stories, while very personal, may resonate to viewers who might have shared experiences. As such, art is a bridge that links us artists to our audience. Growing up in rural Appalachia, I experienced much diversity that not only shaped my identity but offered insight and experiential knowledge that I hope is conveyed in my art.
But, as I travelled well beyond the borders of the Appalachia and outside of my own experiences, a cultural fusion occurred which I believe forever changed my perspective on my past, present, and future. Thus, my art is constantly evolving while remaining honest to my mission to challenge perspective and invite others to not only hear my story in my art but to link it to their own experiences as well.