Hello, my name is Rachael Meckling, I am a Fashion Artist born and bred in Saskatoon. I earned my Bachelor of Design from TMU (formerly Ryerson University) in Toronto and have been illustrating, painting and graphic designing ever since. My artwork has heavy fashion undertones; the movement of garments, colours, faces, hair, shoes, shapes, patterns, all of it. I specialize in illustration and painting with watercolour, with my signature being what I call “Fashion Illustrations” in the form of personal portraits.
My Downtown studio is in the historical and professional studios of the Avenue Building. Over 40 years ago my father had his Coin & Stamp store in this building, later on, my sister, a hair stylist, rented out a studio on the main floor near the entrance, and now I am on the top floor!!
I love being Downtown because it legitimizes my work, and gives clients a safe and stylish place to find me, and honestly I just always wanted to be in a bigger city, and this building and these streets make me feel like I am. Downtown Saskatoon is so dear to my heart, I’ve worked at numerous restaurants, clothing stores and shoe stores throughout the years, and now work in my very own studio as my very own boss! I see so much community blooming Downtown, I love knocking on Cloud 9’s door, or Klay from Apollo Hair Studio to say hello. I also love seeing my studio used by photographers for their own art, an opportunity I offer via studio rental of my space for boudoir + fashion shoots.
In the future, I’d love to see Downtown create bike valets, cyclist lanes, food trucks, places to work out, and facilities for early childcare so that more families can feel closer to their kids as they bust their butts in their field/craft Downtown.
When I’m not working, I am usually found near the river, watching the sunset; such a breathtaking place to ground our feet and hearts. I’m often found at my favourite Vietnamese family-run Restaurant 224, HoneyBun Cafe, or my Dad’s Coin & Stamp store in the Drinkle Building. I also love going to the mall to mail off my illustrations, and you know…Shop.
You can reach me by email at [email protected]
Technically by apt only, but typically I am in my studio 6 days a week from 1pm -10pm.
You can also reach me at 306 270 2128 or pop by Suite #401, 220 3rd Avenue S.
