Opening Reception for WEB: Works by Rachel Rizzo

Washington Street Studios & Gallery presents "WEB": Works by Rachel Rizzo! 

OPENING RECEPTION: Saturday, September 5 from 6-8 pm
CLOSING RECEPTION: Friday, September 25, from 6-8 pm

ON VIEW: Saturday, September 5 through Saturday, September 26,  Saturdays from 12 PM -- 4 PM, and by appointment

CONTACT: wsacpublicity@gmail.com

Rachel Rizzo (she/her) is an artist and educator working in Boston, MA. Her recent paintings and mixed media work are a reflection of genealogical and artistic research started in 2020, when she began the process of applying for Italian citizenship, jus sanguinis (by right of blood). 

Supported by four artist residencies in Italy since 2022, this research examines the layered cultural histories and folk traditions that shape Italian and Italian-American identity. 

She is interested specifically in the evolution of Catholic rituals with roots in pagan folk traditions, as well as how local communities organized partisan resistance against fascism.

Her painting, collage, and mixed media works have combined material and imagery culled from her complicated personal experiences growing up in the Catholic church, and the spiraling web of historic and cultural references that are revealed as her research continues.

About Washington Street: Washington Street is a gallery and studio space for more than twenty visual artists; and presents exhibitions, concerts, film series, and other art initiatives. Washington Street participates in Somerville Open Studios each May, as well as other community events throughout the year. 

Washington Street’s gallery and studios are at 321 Washington Street, Somerville, MA, between Union Square and Beacon Street, a five-minute walk from Union Square and a ten-minute walk from Harvard. Washington Street is near or on the following bus routes: 85, 87, 91, 109 and CT2.