From detailed paintings to intricate pottery, the vibrant and passionate culture of the Magnolia State seeps into every surface of Artist Rosie Vassallo’s craft. Her use of surrealism connects the rich history of Mississippi with the iconic symbols of Ole Miss. Vassallo seeks to capture the most beloved landmarks of Rebel fans that are proudly displayed around Oxford, such as The Inn at Ole Miss.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Vassallo recalls nostalgically upon the moment her seed of inspiration was planted. San Antonio Municipal Auditorium selected her work specifically to be showcased; this monumental experience in just the 6th grade sparked her love for creativity.
Following that spark, her journey later led to a degree in Advertising Design from TCU. “That passion only grew stronger as I took my first formal art classes at TCU, where I immersed myself in the university’s vibrant art scene,” She says. “Competing in art shows, I was fortunate to win several awards, which solidified my commitment to honing my craft.”
Vassallo can be commonly found in Oxford painting, often in the tranquility of her cozy living room, to the soothing sound of the TV. Her husband of 43 years, Steve, is a proud Ole Miss alumnus, whose dream of returning to Oxford was ultimately fulfilled after creating memories in several different states along the way.
Vassallo describes that “…his unwavering love for his alma mater was contagious, and I soon found myself becoming an Ole Miss fan as well.” Inspired by her husband’s passion, she began to capture the community’s vibrant spirit.
From the most Northern tip to the Delta, her newfound home of Mississippi has molded her work. She honors the state’s dedication to the relentless preservation of the historical foundation of its culture through museums, music, literature and artists through her pieces. Vassallo’s inspiration pulls from the myriad of remarkable locations to discover and cultural experiences to admire.
Besides her adamant admiration for the University of Mississippi, Vassallo also “[aspires] to be remembered as a Mississippi artist whose work resonates throughout the state.” Each piece of original artwork has been rendered into a print that encapsulates the true embodiment of the state. She envisions her artwork framed on the walls of various homes across the state, bringing the liveliness of Mississippi into their own four walls.
Her paintings encapsulate a realist approach, seeking to closely resemble the subject and scenery in every stroke of her paintbrush. Vassallo incorporates vibrant and lively colors in duality with her desire for each of her pieces to hold a lifelike quality, granting them their own spirit amongst the canvas.
She takes great joy in bringing commissioned paintings to life; her goal is to leave commissionaires delighted with the encapsulation of their fondest memories. “I put in the effort to ensure that each piece reflects the unique emotions and memories of my clients,” Vassallo states.
A “double-take” is a common reaction to the process of Vassallo’s pieces, as she paints her subjects upside down. As a unique technique she gained from college courses, Vassallo claims that the rotated canvas allows her to create finer detail. She enjoys the process, stating that “…it’s always fun to flip the painting right-side up afterward and see just how accurately the image has come together.”
The Oxford community has been an endless fountain of opportunities for Vasallo and artists alike. Whether through art shows, showcases, or ways to sell work, the city has a diverse number of classes to continue creative growth. Vassallo takes great pride in her recognition of being a successful teacher, with most of her pride placed in her students: they have showcased their exceptional talent on state, national, and international levels.
Beyond the rewarding nature of teaching, she has been honored to win the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber Community Guide Cover contest for three consecutive years, as well as the Top Award for Public Relations and Marketing in Mississippi.
Vassallo has generously continued to give back to the local community through her role as Executive Director of the City Chamber of Commerce by donating paintings for fundraisers and creatively contributing to brochures, invitations and banners. Her admirable contributions to her town continue to display her true connection to the place that fuels her artistic impulse.
Rosie Vasallo’s art can be viewed further on her Facebook account at Rosie Vassallo Artist.
