About Rhoda Yanow

Rhoda Yanow, a New Jersey native, is a widely exhibited National and International artist. After years of study, she completed her art education at the Parsons School of Design and the National Academy of Design in New York City. Ms. Yanow has extensive teaching experience including DuCret School of the Arts, Pastel Society of America, the Newark Museum, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, private classes and workshops. She has been a member of the Jury for selection of awards for many National and International Shows.


Artist Statement: Luminosity and Life

I have been entranced since childhood with the luminosity of pastels and the vibrancy of life — of dancers tense before the curtain rises, of old folks recreating other times, of students eager for challenges yet unknown. My artistic adventure began with a grandmother intent upon devising private entertainment for an only child, something that would keep me amused and out of trouble. It evolved into a search for special moments, for glimpses behind the masks we all wear, a search for telling gestures and grimaces, postures and poses. It was enriched when a friend, a teacher, fell ill and asked me to substitute for a couple of weeks. He was never able to return, and two weeks stretched beyond two decades. The luminosity has shown brighter since that first day before a class. The lights in students’ eyes outshine any pastel highlight. The students are the future. Their light is our light. It is everything.