We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rochelle Irons. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Rochelle, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I got a puppy! I was struggling to decide whether I wanted to add something else to my plate. But it was seriously one of the best ideas ever! He (Sunny) has brought so much joy and love into our home.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
It’s great to connect with the “Hidden Gems” readers!
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### Hello from Green Papaya Palace!
I’m Rochelle, and I’m an artist driven by the vibrant beauty of the world around us, especially the ocean. My brand, **Green Papaya Palace**, is where I pour my heart into creating fine art that’s all about beauty, joy, and finding light, even in the everyday.
What makes Green Papaya Palace special is that it’s deeply rooted in my own story. I grew up living on a boat, traveling the oceans, and that profound connection to the sea still inspires every brushstroke. When I became a single mom overnight, my art transformed into a conscious celebration of finding the good, the resilient, and the beautiful, even when life gets tough. It’s about choosing joy.
Right now, I’m especially excited about my “Later Gator” collection, which is a playful, wild, and joyful tribute to the Florida I know and love—think flamingo pinks and vibrant greens! It’s a true love letter to the steamy, unapologetically alive summers here. I’m always working on new pieces that tell a story, whether it’s about personal growth, the power of love, or simply the breathtaking colors of a sunset over the water. I hope that each piece brings a little bit of that intentional beauty and optimism into your home.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I would have to say to start with, my childhood in general, my passion for art truly feels as deep and boundless as the ocean I grew up on. Being raised on a boat, constantly surrounded by the vast, ever-changing sea, instilled in me a profound appreciation for natural beauty and the flow of life. I remember seeing the world through a kaleidoscope of ocean hues and vibrant island life, and it just begged to be captured.
Later, when life threw unexpected waves my way—becoming a single mom to two incredible little boys overnight—that deep-seated connection to finding beauty became my anchor. It was a conscious choice, really, to seek out the light, the joy, and the ‘hidden gems’ in every day, even amidst the storms. My art became a testament to that choice, a way to translate pain into beauty and to celebrate the vibrant, sometimes messy, masterpiece that is life. Every piece I create holds two hidden stars, a little nod to my boys, who truly are the grounding center of my world. I believe that beauty isn’t just found in perfect, sun-drenched moments; it’s also undeniably present in our struggles and the depths of our experiences. Think of a tempest at sea—it’s powerful, sometimes terrifying, but also incredibly magnificent. My art strives to reflect that duality.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
I’ve learned, especially through the journey of motherhood and personal growth, that while life can deliver heart-wrenching moments, we always have the power to choose our focus. For me, it’s about intentionally seeking out the ‘silver linings,’ the quiet joys like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, or the calming rhythm of waves on the shore. It’s about acknowledging the full spectrum of emotions, but always steering towards the light. I want my art to be a reminder that even when things feel shattered, like ‘Heart of Glass,’ there’s always an opportunity for reflection, for healing, and for a beautiful new narrative to emerge.”
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That’s a thought-provoking question, and it touches on some common misconceptions within the creative and art worlds! Based on my observations and experiences, here are some of the “biggest lies” that the art and creative industries sometimes inadvertently or directly tell people:
“There’s one ‘right’ way to be a successful artist/creative.”
The Lie: This often comes from a focus on traditional paths (e.g., gallery representation, specific education, or achieving a certain level of fame).
The Reality: The creative landscape is incredibly diverse. Success looks different for everyone. Some artists thrive in galleries, others online. Some teach, some license their work, some create for personal fulfillment, and others build direct relationships with collectors. There’s no single blueprint, and the most successful creatives often carve out unique paths that align with their personal vision and values.
Another one would be:
“Inspiration is always a spontaneous, effortless lightning bolt.”
The Lie: This makes the creative process seem magical and always easy.
The Reality: While moments of sudden inspiration do occur, much of the creative process is about showing up, putting in the hours, disciplined practice, experimentation, problem-solving, and often pushing through creative blocks. It’s often more about consistent effort and cultivating habits that invite inspiration, rather than waiting for it to strike.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
What I’d most regret not doing is truly, deeply, passionately living. And I don’t just mean existing day-to-day. For me, it’s about fully immersing myself in the vibrant current of life, much like diving into a warm ocean on a perfect Florida day. It’s about more than just staying afloat; it’s about throwing myself wholeheartedly into the things that ignite my soul, whether it’s a new artistic idea, a curious side path, or just soaking in a precious moment with my boys.
It’s about having the courage to follow those unexpected “side quests” life throws your way, even if you don’t know where they’ll lead. I never want to look back and wish I’d explored more, laughed harder, loved deeper, or simply embraced the wild, beautiful adventure that life offers. My art, in a way, is a constant reminder to myself to keep living this way, finding and celebrating those ‘hidden gems’ in every experience
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.greenpapayapalace.com
- Instagram: greenpapayapalace
- Facebook: greenpapayapalace
Image Credits
All images by Jillian Nickleson Brooks
