Maria Chimes In: Episode 1 – Rina Prel
Welcome to Maria Chimes In this week with Rina Prel
KTB Presents Episode 1 of ‘Maria Chimes In’. This week, Maria sat down with Brooklyn-bred, budding artist Rina Prelvukaj—better known as Rina Prel in the art world. Rina at first glance encompasses the features of an artist—minimalist on the surface, with flowing blonde locks, yet evocative with her description and sense of self as an expressive human being. In this segment, Rina details how her unyielding persistence, and staunch dedication to her craft, enabled her to climb the ranks from a burgeoning St. John’s graphic design student to being featured in the 2014 Miami Art Basel.
We began by exploring her roots as the youngest child and only girl of three, born to Albanian immigrants, and the sole member of her family to be born in the United States. A strong commitment to one’s work was instilled at an early age. A native Brooklynite, Rina discusses how her introversion, which started in the sandbox, affected her as an artist and continues to influence her thought-process. Though often vibrant in nature, and alluring in message, traces of Rina’s introversion can always be found in her work.
This segment details a young New York City artist’s determination to be noticed, and recounts her ambitious triumphs in a market that is oft rife with competition. Rina delves into her greatest influences (fellow St. John’s alum J.Cole at the top of the list) and how concentration and perseverance are as essential to an artist as canvas and paint.
Rina asserts losses are just as important as wins and failure is intrinsic to success. She explains the channels she crossed, roads she paved, and how Brooklyn, in particular, remains a staple element in her work. Rina’s art is universal; it can be presented in local coffee shops, featured in galleries throughout New York City, and in large-scale exhibitions. Look out for Rina’s next showing at www.RinaPrel.com.
Maria Chimes In: Episode 2 – Kathryn Tam
