Eclipsed Artistry

My story as an artist.

I’m Rae Keshteh Gar, a Charlotte-based artist whose oil and watercolor paintings weave together themes of comfort, small joys, and subtle darkness. My work is a love letter to the human experience, blending cozy moments with contemplative shadows to tell stories that transport and evoke emotion.

My passion for art began in childhood—imagine a young girl in the quiet glow of a Maine afternoon, her eyes wide as she pores over the enchanted pages of Beauty and the Beast, illustrated by Hillary Knight on the floor of her grandmother’s bedroom. Though I took my first oil painting course in high school, self-doubt kept me dancing on the edges of this love of art for years. With the echos of my artist grandmother and ma tante’s artworks, I nurtured a small creative flame into a dedicated practice. Now, creating art feels as essential as breathing—a language I’ve always yearned to speak fluently.

In my oil and watercolor paintings, I lean into loose, flowing brushstrokes and subtle textures to capture feeling—whether it’s the deep, moody glow of a pomegranate or the soft cheer of flower petals. I want to grow my work that plays with contrasts: cozy moments meet quiet shadows, blending the beauty of the everyday, drawing viewers into spaces that feel both familiar and contemplative. Self-taught with a scattering of art classes, I’m committed to honing my craft, with plans to deepen my skills in the coming year to bring more stories to life.

I’ve shared my work at Charlotte’s local art markets and engage a small audience on Instagram and TikTok, where I showcase my creative process. I’m passionate about bringing my series-based works to gallery spaces, connecting with audiences who resonate with my blend of classical influences and modern storytelling. I invite you to explore my portfolio and reach out to discuss potential collaborations.