About

Rowena Cage (They/Them) is a trailblazing artist whose vibrant journey encompasses a rich tapestry of experiences. Rowena embodies a rich cultural heritage that deeply influences their work. Born in Guadeloupe, raised in the Commonwealth of Dominica, and now based in Omaha, Nebraska, Cage's artistry is a fusion of their Caribbean heritage and Midwestern influences. A self-taught digital artist and mixed media expert, their work is a celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and the power of self-expression. Cage, who identifies as Black, queer, non-binary, disabled, and neurodivergent, transcends boundaries, weaving powerful narratives of representation and inclusivity. With over 15 years of professional experience, their work has been featured in Milford Magazine and exhibited at notable venues like the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts and College of Saint Mary. Their art practice, which they describe as "dancing to the rhythm of the universe," is a testament to their lifelong passion for creative exploration and storytelling. 

Rowena is well known for their bright and vibrant art and the fun names she comes up with for her art collections like her Flowerspheres series, Whimsical Women and the kawaii-style characters and world of Pinapel and Friends. Rowena wrote, illustrated and self published the book, Pinapel And Friends. Who Are They?. It introduces readers to the cute and whimsical, queer inclusive and diverse world of original characters. Click here to learn more about the book. 

"I once received an award for being a creative ignitor. I have held on to that award because I feel that my art ignites others. I feel it encourages them to listen and learn to dance to their own rhythm of the universe. " - Rowena

Van Gogh's Understudy: A Modern Ode to Timeless Artistry, Rowena's latest body of work, is a vibrant and innovative art collection, debuting February 1, 2024 for Black History Month at the Hot Shops Art Center and Nebraska Furniture Mart. This series of printed digital artworks reimagines Vincent Van Gogh's iconic style through a modern lens, celebrating Black women as the sole subject matter. In 19th-century European art, Black women were typically depicted as subjects in roles of servitude, often with sexualized undertones, and commonly adorned in attire that evoked notions of distant, 'exotic' lands and colonial realms. Rowena is sharing a different story of who the Black woman truly was at that time. For each piece of artwork Rowena has written a short personal bio story depicting the everyday Black woman of that era. 

Inspired by Cage's awe of 'Starry Night' and Van Gogh's tumultuous yet inspiring life, this collection explores what Rowena imagined it might have been like to be Van Gogh's understudy. Rowena uses the word understudy in an untraditional sense here, imagining themselves being able to personally experience and explore his creative process first hand get to know the Van Gogh behind the artist and how that would shape their work. Each piece is a vibrant blend of Cage's unique vision and the spirit of van Gogh's expressive brushstrokes, creating a mesmerizing dance of color, emotion, and cultural significance. It is a tribute to Van Gogh's legacy, infused with Rowena's unique perspective and artistic flair. Each piece is a conversation between past and present, a harmonious blend of Van Gogh's expressive brushwork and Rowena's bold, innovative approach. This series is not just a collection of art; it's a powerful statement on representation, identity, and the enduring impact of artistic expression.

Four exclusive limited edition works from the Van Gogh's Understudy series will be on display and for sale at Nebraska Furniture Mart, February 1 - 29 for their annual Celebration of Black Culture gallery display.

Visit the Hot Shops Art Center to celebrate Black History Month and to experience a collection of work that has been two years in the making. 

EXHIBITION RUNS:  February 1 - February 29

ARTIST TALK: Friday, February 23, 6pm

LOCATION: Hot Shops 1301 Nicholas St Omaha, NE 68102

GALLERY HOURS: Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm, Saturday - Sunday 10am - 5pm

Click here to register for the Art Talk.

Rowena's VISION is to create a space to live a HAPPY LIFE, being their most authentic self and doing what they love and inspiring others to do the same.

Connect with Rowena: 

 INSTAGRAM, TIKTOK, FACEBOOK, LINKEDIN, TWITTER