Today we’d like to introduce you to Haydee Rancel.
Hi Haydee, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been drawn to the creative arts. From childhood through young adulthood, I spent countless hours drawing and sketching, using art as a natural way to express and process my emotions. In elementary school, I was selected to attend a magnet art program, an early acknowledgment that my creativity was something worth nurturing. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been creating; painting, crafting, and finding new ways to bring ideas to life. As a teen, I would draw on book bags to sell to classmates, design graffiti-style name tags, hand-paint jeans, and make woven friendship bracelets that I sold at the corner market where my mom, a hairdresser, regularly shopped. Her artistic creativity and entrepreneurial spirit were a constant source of inspiration, shaping how I approached both art and life.
That early passion eventually grew into a broader exploration of jewelry making, screen printing, painting, mosaics, and mixed media. As a self-taught artist, I now focus primarily on mixed media acrylic painting, layering textures and incorporating diverse elements to bring each piece to life. My work has been featured in local galleries across Broward, and I was recently selected for the 2025 Cultural Coast’s national outdoor exhibition with Embracing Our Differences. Most recently, I’ve stepped into the world of murals; a journey that led to my acceptance into the mural mentorship program with BFA of Broward, where I’m expanding my practice in public art with the intention of inspiring communities and fostering change.
Much of my inspiration comes from my own life journey, often infused with a strong spiritual influence. Many of my works tell stories rooted in personal experience, transforming feelings into visual narratives. My motivation is simple: to keep creating, keep expressing, and keep discovering more about myself as I evolve as an artist. Just as creating is deeply healing for me, I hope my work offers healing, connection, introspection, and inspiration to those who encounter it.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Like many artists, I’ve faced moments of self-doubt, financial uncertainty, and the challenge of balancing creative passion with the demands of everyday life. Being self-taught has been both a gift and a challenge. I’ve had to learn through trial and error, which can be a slow and humbling process. Over the years, I’ve had different art studios, pouring my heart and energy into building them, only to have to close them down and start over. Doing it all myself was exhausting at times, but each experience taught me resilience and sharpened my skills. Eventually, I transitioned to working out of my home studio, which has given me stability, flexibility, and a renewed gratitude for the creative space I have now. Looking back, those obstacles pushed me to be more resourceful, to problem-solve creatively, and to trust and strengthen my own voice as an artist. Every challenge has shaped me, deepening my work, and commitment to creating art that feels authentic and meaningful.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a self-taught mixed media artist, and my work is rooted in acrylic painting layered with rich textures, bold colors, and unexpected materials. I love building depth with glass and mirrors, fabric, crystals, metallic leaf, paper, found objects, and other various natural elements, like flowers; creating pieces that invite the viewer to not just look, but to feel the surface and explore the layers. Each work is a tapestry of emotion and story, often drawn from my own life experiences and deep spiritual influence. I’m fascinated by how art can hold both beauty and vulnerability, and I strive to make pieces that connect with people on an emotional and energetic level.
What I’m most proud of is the way my art has evolved while staying true to its soul. I’ve had the honor of exhibiting in local galleries, being selected for national outdoor exhibitions, and stepping into the world of public art to also now begin my journey as a muralist. Those moments feel like milestones, especially when I reflect on being a teenager hand-painting jeans, decorating book bags, and weaving bracelets to sell.
What sets my work apart is the intentionality behind every mark and layer, nothing is random. Colors are chosen for their energy, textures for their symbolism, and each composition is designed to invite the viewer into a quiet moment of connection. My goal isn’t just to create something visually striking, but to craft an experience; one that lingers, evokes thought, sparks reflection, and, hopefully, brings a sense of healing or inspiration long after someone has walked away. I paint from the heart, expressing love and inner strength through every brushstroke.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been fortunate to have several people and experiences that have shaped my artistic journey. One of my earliest memories of being supported was in fifth grade, when my teacher personally took it upon herself to bring me to an art magnet school for testing, recognizing my creative talents and encouraging me to pursue them. Early on, my mom played a huge role; her creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and encouragement gave me the confidence to explore my ideas and even start selling my handmade creations as a kid. My father has also been incredibly supportive, contributing to my entrepreneurial inspiration as a business owner himself. Their unwavering support taught me the value of persistence, hard work, and following my passions.
Throughout my career, mentors, fellow artists, and business and gallery owners have offered guidance, opportunities, and encouragement. Programs like the mural mentorship with BFA of Broward are invaluable in helping me expand my skills, navigate the public art world, and grow as an artist. Friends, clients, and collectors who connect with my work and share their feedback have also been vital cheerleaders, reminding me why I create and inspiring me to keep evolving.
Beyond all of this, my strong faith in God has been a constant source of guidance and strength. I have always felt his presence throughout my journey, guiding me toward purpose and providing clarity, reassurance, and perseverance through both challenges and successes. While I’ve forged much of my path independently as a self-taught artist, the encouragement, mentorship, and support of others combined with my faith, have been essential in helping me reach the milestones I’ve achieved so far.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://HaydeeRancel.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haydeerancel_creativeartist/ and https://www.instagram.com/haydeerancelart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaydeeRancelArt
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/haydee-rancel-art-hollywood
