Raine Tajonera

Artist Biography

Art has always been a way for me to tell stories; to share a message without the use of spoken words. Mixed media and digital art are my comfort zones, because it’s where I feel the least restricted to create. I can share the parts of myself that I struggle to say out loud, and it’s always been a way for me to try to get others to understand who I am better, like a reflection of who I am at the point of time when I’ve made a piece.

Everything I Couldn’t Say

"God, I wish I could just rip my vocal cords out"--was the main thought that drove this piece. I grew up struggling with selective mutism, something that only worsened as I discovered who I was and became bogged down with gender and voice dysphoria. Sometimes I wish I could just force the words out myself; this piece encapsulates my frustration, fear, and the wish for being able to do something more than just stay silent.