Beyond the Family Portrait: Isobel Rae's Meditative Process in Film and Darkroom
Isobel Rae: The Canadian Artist in Brooklyn Capturing the Tender World of Siblings
We delve into the meditative practice of the visual artist, whose deeply personal portraits are developed in her kitchen and printed by hand in the darkroom, creating a poetic journey from idea to image.
There is a raw, intimate tenderness in the portraits created by Isobel Rae. The Canadian-born, Brooklyn-based visual artist (b. 1993) has a unique gift for capturing the quiet, complex bonds of family, particularly between siblings. Her work feels both like a memory and a dream, a quality achieved through a deeply hands-on and personal process with film. We were captivated by her thoughtful approach and her belief in allowing creativity to flow organically, and we are thrilled to share her story.
Influences: From Masters to Memory
Isobel’s artistic point of view is shaped by a reverence for the greats of intimate, narrative photography. She cites Alec Soth, Larry Sultan, Tina Barney, Joel Sternfeld, and Carl DeKeyzer as major influences, alongside formative mentors like professors Sandra Semchuk and Scott Conarroe.
Yet, her most profound inspiration is drawn from her inner world. "I am also inspired by my own memories and imagination, my family, nature, personal relationships and love." This blend of academic influence and deep personal introspection is what gives her work its universal yet intimately specific resonance.
The Creative Process: A Poetic Journey from Mind to Print
Isobel’s creative process is a patient and meditative ritual. She explains that ideas often germinate for "weeks, months, sometimes years" before coming to fruition. While she likes to think extensively about a concept, the actual execution is rooted in a poetic embrace of chance.
"So much of my process is rooted in experimentation... it never quite goes that way for me and I usually just go with the flow of whatever happens when it comes down to it, I think its kind of poetic to just allow things to fall where they do."
The physical act of creation is a crucial part of her practice. She develops the film herself in her kitchen—a step she incorporated last year that allows her to have her "hand in it from start to finish." The final stage is the darkroom, where hand-printing becomes a meditative act. "Printing in the darkroom is very meditative for me... it allows for a lot of personality to be put into the images, playing with light and color."
A Year of Focus and Hopeful Evolution
The past year provided Isobel with a unique opportunity for undivided attention on her craft. "This past year really allowed me to focus on my own practice... allowing me to really think about what I want and what I’m interested in." This period of deep focus was essential for experimentation and growth.
Looking forward, she sees constant change and evolution for both herself and the world. While uncertain of the future's shape, she clings to a hopeful perspective: "I can only hope it will be changing for the better."
Icons and Improvement: A Focus on Authentic Creation
For Isobel, a modern icon is Telfar Clemens, whose boundless, unexpected vision and major cultural moves—from iconic bags to designing for the Liberia Olympic team—represent a new paradigm of creative entrepreneurship.
When asked about the need for change in the art world, Isobel offers a refreshingly straightforward philosophy from her position as an observer. "I don't consider myself to be so involved in the art world... I think that artists should just make work that they like and that resonates with them and hope that others can find something in it as well."
Wellbeing: The Balance of the Journey
Her definition of wellbeing mirrors her acceptance of the creative process—it’s all about balance. "A balance of good and bad, success and struggle." She sees value in the entire journey, acknowledging that her work "would not be where it is today without the long road I've had until now of trial and error."
Isobel Rae’s work is a powerful testament to the beauty of slow creation, personal investment, and the profound stories waiting to be told within our closest relationships.
To immerse yourself in Isobel’s beautiful and tender world, follow her work:
