Artist Biography

Ra’Chel Alexander is an acrylic artist whose journey has taken her from her roots in North Carolina to the vibrant art community of Grand Forks, ND, where she has lived since 2013. Her first local gallery exhibition in 2016 marked the beginning of a remarkable career. Over the years, her work has been featured in numerous national and regional shows and events, earning her international recognition and a feature in Forbes online magazine.

Ra’Chel ’s passion for art extends far beyond the canvas. As an advocate for creative expression and community engagement, she has played a pivotal role in enriching the arts in Grand Forks. Starting in 2017 as a volunteer events coordinator for the local art event Alley Alive, she later became the Executive Director of the Public Arts Commission in 2019. Through her leadership, she organized significant events like ArtFest and the Mayor’s Choice Artist Showcase and curated prominent local galleries, including those at the Alerus Center and Altru Professional Center.

In 2020, Alexander took a step back from her practice, embarking on a personal hiatus to recharge and reflect. Her return to the art scene in 2023 marked a new chapter in her creative journey. Once known for her vibrant, colorful depictions of animals, her work has evolved to embrace the complexity of the human form and the stories that resonate deeply with her. Drawing inspiration from mythology, literature, and music, Alexander creates pieces that are as personal as they are universal—inviting viewers to find their own connections within her art.

Through her ever-evolving body of work, Ra’Chel continues to explore the intersections of imagination, emotion, and narrative, rediscovering her passion and sharing it with the world.