Guest: Rachel Coleman of Shy Fox Studio
In this episode of The Artist Is In, fluid artist Rachel Coleman shares how a return to creativity helped her heal after trauma—and how letting go of control became the most powerful part of her practice.
We talk about growing up in her mother’s ceramic shop, the moment she rediscovered painting, and why fluid art felt like the only medium that could hold her emotions. Rachel opens up about how her work is shaped by nature, geodes, and the messy beauty of surrendering to the process.
This is a conversation about trust, transformation, and finding freedom through flow.
🎤 About Rachel Coleman:
Rachel Coleman is a fluid artist based in Chester County, Pennsylvania, working under the name Shy Fox Studio. Her creative journey began in childhood, growing up in her mother’s ceramic shop in the 1980s and 90s. Although she stepped away from painting as a teenager, art eventually found its way back into her life as a powerful tool for healing.
In 2017, following a personal trauma, Rachel’s therapist encouraged her to explore creative outlets to help engage the right side of her brain. What began as a simple project—painting holiday decorations—quickly became a profound escape. Immersed in the process, Rachel rediscovered the joy of making and experienced moments of peace that helped quiet her mind.
After experimenting with various mediums, she found herself repeatedly drawn to fluid art. The vibrant colors and the unpredictable flow across the canvas resonated deeply with her, offering both challenge and freedom. As someone who values control, fluid art has become an essential practice in learning to let go.
Rachel’s work is inspired by the beauty of nature, biology, and organic formations like geodes—each reflected in the patterns and movement within her paintings. Her art is not only a creative expression but a path of ongoing healing and growth.
She is grateful for the way art has illuminated her life, for the connections she has made along the way, and for the opportunity to share her work with others. Through it all, Rachel embraces the journey with a simple, joyful truth: life is good.
Instagram: @shyfoxstudio822
Website: www.shyfoxstudio.com
Thanks for listening and share the podcast with your friends!
EPISODE CREDITS
Produced and Hosted by Kat Collins and Nina Boodhansingh
Edited and Mixed by Kat Collins Studio
Artwork designed by Kat Collins Studio
LINKS
Be sure to follow and tag us with #TheArtistIsInPodcast on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook: @katcollinsstudio @nina_bood
Podcast: https://www.artistisin.com
Website: https://www.katcollinsstudio.com/podcast
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