About Ros

My name is Roslyne Smith and I was born and raised in South Africa, where art was always a part of my life. At 5 years old, I began taking art classes and eventually studied graphic design before I pursued my career in the television industry. I moved to the United States in 2001 where I am a wife and mother to three beautiful children.

There was never a person, place or thing that inspired my art. Rather I felt a need to create and give others joy through my work. I find peace in problem solving through colors, composition, texture and shading.

Making a mess! If I didn’t make a mess when I painted a piece, it means nothing was accomplished!

I work in my studio which is in the basement of our Chicago home. My favorite way to immerse myself in my art is to spread everything out on the floor. I find jubilation in the deconstructed workplace. Abstract art requires me to walk around the canvas and use my whole body to apply the paint. Whereas, for my Jewish women, I use an easel or table as they are much more delicate.

Paint! I can’t do anything without my paint. Working with mixed media, my supplies are crucial to the final product.

For my Jewish work, I would like to create new and different paintings for upcoming holidays and Jewish charities. Whereas, for my abstract work, I want to continue to do custom paintings for interior decorators, while also growing and expanding my audience through social media.

Yes, I do both commissioned pieces as well as self-exploration projects.

I’m currently working on a series of abstract acrylic pieces for a local interior decorator in Chicago. Although pink is my favorite color, I am broadening my color palette to incorporate warm fall colors such as browns, greens, greys, bronzes, etc.

My favorite item is a portrait of an African lady that I painted in my first year in America. It brought me back to my roots and I was longing to feel at home as I was going through a major transition in my life. I still hold on to her in my basement but now my work is much more bright, colorful and happy.

This is a difficult question. Especially with abstract work, it’s hard to tell when something is complete. I like to add color and texture and turn it upside down - Basically, I know when it’s done when I look at it and want to hang it up on my own wall!

The first piece of art I sold was A Woman of Valor which was inspired by my trip to Israel.

I am particularly enjoying the abstract pieces I am working on right now. It is a textural series of juxtaposition full of wild movement and bold colors.

The most rewarding aspect of this work is knowing that my art can bring someone joy and peace - that my colors can connect with people and evoke emotions. It is timeless and can be passed down from generation to generation! I really love when my clients share pictures of my work hung up in their home. Nothing makes me happier.