ARTIST BIO
Rebekah MacKay is an American visual artist whose work is rooted in the therapeutic power of art.
Rebekah with her dog Ischia in San Francisco, CA
Born in Massachusetts in 1988, Rebekah's journey is one of constant evolution, rooted in her enduring belief that art serves as both therapy and a safe haven. Throughout her life, she's instinctively turned to painting, drawing, and writing as vehicles for self-expression, personal growth, and creative exploration.
Rebekah earned a BFA in Illustration from the School of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University, where she laid the foundation for her artistic journey. Her academic pursuits continued as she attained an MS in Photography from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, further enriching her artistic arsenal.
Her career started in fashion at Ralph Lauren, where Rebekah cultivated a vast portfolio of original artwork and photography for captivating in-store displays. From crafting a captivating 6-foot canvas painting to meticulously curating photographs and sketches, she embraced the art of blending creativity and commerce.
Delving into the realm of advertising, Rebekah harnessed her mastery of photography while serving as a photo producer in Ralph Lauren's advertising department. These cumulative experiences fueled her drive to create her own creative production agency, Hello Roo.
Despite these significant achievements, Rebekah's yearning for a more profound connection with her creative calling persisted. Pursuing her passion, she transitioned into a full-time role as the creative lead for a San Francisco startup, drawn by its alignment with her values. However, the initial promise soon unraveled, revealing a toxic, discriminatory environment that took a toll on her mental and physical well-being. Following her departure, Rebekah used this period of reflection to reaffirm her true aspirations.
It was during a transformative phase that Rebekah wholeheartedly embraced her identity as a visual artist. Casting aside toxic environments, she embarked on a courageous journey of self-discovery and artistic authenticity. Her canvases became her sanctuary—an intimate space where inner emotions found refuge and vibrant expression.
Rebekah currently lives and works in San Francisco, CA, with her dog Ischia, named after her favorite place in Italy. When she's not creating, she enjoys trail running, surfing, and exploring flea markets.
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