Artist Profiles: REINA 76

Reina-76-Artist, born Reina Aguilar Wooden on March 9, 1976, is an abstract painter from Harrisburg PA. Her father and grandparents — both farmers, and mother are all from Venezuela. Reina-76 draws from both perspectives to create her painted objects.

Growing up, Reina-76 spent much of her life battling abuse, one incident of which led her to pursue her art aggressively, ignoring art techniques that might otherwise stand in her way.

The KKK Breeds Hate 1965, I Am Legend Cabron 2008, and Lincoln Frees Human Beings 1865, works painted in acrylic, explore the dark and devoid mind of an ignored artist.

“I am someone who never feels alone. There is always a shadowy presence that follows,” states Reina-76-Artist. “Many in the art world are shunned for turning their canvases into a Dorian Gray experience. I do not fear the idea of raw emotions painting their way onto my canvas. This is what I want to capture. It is true life before our eyes, souls waiting to be seen.”

Reina -76’s philosophy caught the attention of Arts writer, David Dunkle of the Patriot News. His article “Emerging Artists Seize Their Success Online” describes her as “an underground artist [who] scribbles intriguing political imagery on colorful canvases, often targeting hypocrisy and injustice.”