I was introduced to Rachel by Dominick and Donald Taglialatella.  Donald had been my student a number of years earlier at the University of Delaware.  When I accepted an appointment at NYU's Institute of Fine Arts, I was but a few short blocks from Donald's gallery.  Donald told me about an exceptional artists whose work he wanted me to see.  When I visited Avanti gallery I was knocked over by the poetry, simplicity, depth of feeling and virtuoso technique of Rachel.  When Donald subsequently asked me to write a catalogue essay for a show he was planning of Rachel's recent encaustic works, I jumped at the opportunity.

It was in preparation for this essay that I met Rachel, and soon her entire family.  A visit to Rachel's studio was a rare treat.  Before the tools of her trade she glowed, as if through some alchemical transformation.  Of course, Rachel was ALWAYS alive, and in so many ways larger than life: her kindness, her extraordinary capacity for love, her friendship and her generosity still sustain me.

What began as a professional relationship soon became a deep friendship.  I loved Rachel dearly.  Although I was living in Spain from 2014-20, Rachel and I were always in contact.  She celebrated with me when, as a fellow Sepharad, I received my Spanish passport in 2018.  I know she was there with me in spirit when I swore my oath to the Spanish Constitution. 

From an extraordinary Greek/Turkish/Sephardic dinner that she prepared at her home with Irv, to many hours discussing art, Rachel transformed my life in so many large and small ways.  Although she is no longer present among us, her spirit shines its bright light on me every day as I look at and live with her art.  Rachel's work, Rachel's beautiful soul, have sustained me at difficult times.  When my parents died, Rachel's work spoke to me in profound and moving ways.  And today, in dark times when hope seems so elusive, Rachel's spirit fills me with love.  

Thank you, dear, dear Rachel.  You are forever in my heart.