Artist Statement Spirit is what connects all of humanity. Yet, the innate human nature that drives us to judge one another based on nothing more than face value is a notion that fascinates me and thoroughly influences my work. In every work I create, I strive to show the imperfection, stress and underlying beauty of the being I portray. There are no fine characteristics or clearly defined attributes to my figures -- they are intentionally everyone and no one. The meaning lies in the representation of the image, not the image itself. With a fluid and meditative approach to my work, this understanding emerges -- our inner beauty transcends the physical, emotional and mental barriers that our life experiences have created within us. I hope to tap into the need to realize and embrace that transcendence with work deeply connected to my soul, and I attempt to convey that truth in everything I do. We are all truly beautiful beings. Not despite the flaws and imperfections and failures that have shaped us, but because of them. I want us all to embrace this way of thinking about ourselves. Artist Bio René Romero Schuler (born November 29, 1968) is a renowned American painter and sculptor whose evocative works delve into the intricate complexities of the human experience and the collective spirit that unites us all. Her art possesses a rare emotional depth, channeling raw vulnerability and strength into visual narratives that speak not only to her personal journey but also to the universal stories that define humanity. A defining element of Schuler's work is her portrayal of feminine figures, which she views as both deeply introspective self-portraits and poignant representations of the broad emotional spectrum that transcends individual experience. Born from the adversity of a challenging childhood, her art captures the shared struggles, triumphs, and vulnerabilities that shape our existence. Schuler’s pieces invite viewers to reflect on these universal themes, often focusing on issues that deeply affect women and girls, while fostering a sense of global connection. Schuler’s paintings and sculptures are deliberately semi-abstract and rich with texture, inviting a range of interpretations. Through her signature impasto technique, she builds layers of material with a palette knife, creating surfaces that seem to pulse with life. The tactile quality of her work enhances its emotional resonance, where each figure—both hauntingly beautiful and imperfect—symbolizes the emotional scars and transformative journeys that define the human soul. Schuler’s art has garnered international acclaim, with her work featured in prestigious galleries across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Her pieces have been showcased in major exhibitions throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and are housed in the permanent collections of renowned museums and cultural institutions worldwide. In addition to her visual art, Schuler has published several books, including *René Romero Schuler: Life and Works* (2013), *René Romero Schuler* (2016), *René Romero Schuler* (2019, second edition), and *Ladies* (2023). Each volume offers a profound exploration of the themes of identity, resilience, and transformation that are integral to her artistic vision, further cementing her as a powerful voice in contemporary art.