Bio

Reid Richardson is a contemporary painter whose artwork celebrates the journey of life through the beauty of trees and clouds. With a belief that art is about discovery, both for the creator and observer, Reid’s paintings evoke feelings of wonder and serve as a reminder of our connection to nature.

“Trees have innate characteristics that parallel human existence.  We breathe together, sharing a symbiotic relationship. A tree resembles the human body with branches that outstretch like nurturing arms, bearing fruit to give new life. A head of leaves, full of personality, and roots that dig deep in the soil holding onto history. We grow like a tree grows, planting firmly into the ground of society, and then evolving with the ever-changing seasons.”

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from Arizona State University’s painting program, Reid has a home and studio in Phoenix.  He now pursues a fulfilling career as a contemporary landscape painter and professional printmaker, with his work exhibited in galleries across the southwest.

Reid’s first painting as a child was a silhouetted tree set against a bright night sky. He often reflects on this painting when he is asked the question… Why paint trees?

With his childhood years split between California and Arizona, Reid quickly noticed how the lush tree canopies and towering redwoods of Northern California were a stark contrast to the dusty mountains and tall saguaros of the Sonoran desert. As Reid’s interest for painting grew he found that his unique style and interpretation of nature was greatly appreciated. Before graduating from ASU, his work was displayed at Art One Gallery in Scottsdale, AZ, and he was awarded the opportunity to exhibit his paintings at their partner gallery in Zurich, Switzerland. This 2004 show, titled “Art in America ‘’ was Reid’s first sold-out show opening. To continue his training, Reid began a mentorship with artist Charles Pabst, an accomplished Landscape painter, through which he developed a deep fascination with Landscape painting.

Ultimately, being surrounded by the colorful skies of the Southwest, Reid discovered an obsession for painting clouds. Overtime Reid’s paintings have developed a complex personal vocabulary of imagery that stirs emotions and engages the intellect. His interpretations of clouds capture both their subtle nuances as well as their powerful majesty, standing equally as the perfect background for his trees, or alone to tell their own story. It is through this extraordinary visual language and distinct color palette that Reid communicates profound visions of hope for the future and nostalgia for his youth.

Representation and Accolades

2023:

2022:

2021:

2020:

2019:

  • Globe Fine Art Santa Fe, NM
  • Gallery Arlo New Orleans, LA * 
  • The Signature Gallery Laguna Beach, CA

2018:

  • Globe Fine Art Santa Fe, NM
  • Gallery Arlo New Orleans, LA * 

2017:

  • “Transforming Vitality” one man show at The Globe Gallery Santa Fe, NM
  • “New Growth” one man show at The Signature Gallery Laguna Beach ,CA

2016:

  • “Searching For Light” a one man show at The Signature Gallery Laguna Beach ,CA

2015:

  • The Signature Gallery Laguna Beach ,CA

2014:

  • Art 360  Interpreted works at the Arizona Science Center Planetarium

2013:

  • “4” a group exhibition at Push Gallery Phoenix, AZ

2011:

  • Central Arizona College,  One man show titled:  “Still Searching”

2010:

2009:

2008:

2007:

2006:

  • Interviewed for ABC 15’s Artist of the Week.
  • Solo exhibition at Anti-Space Gallery in Phoenix, AZ.
  • Commissioned by Italian Bistro Andiamo for their Restaurant in Scottsdale, AZ.
  • Art One Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ.

2005:

  • Graduated Arizona State University Magna Cum Lade with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.
  • Began working professionally as a Fine Art Printmaker with artist Charles H. Pabst.
  • Art One Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ.

2004:

  • Art One Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ.

2003:

  • Exhibited internationally at the Art One Zurich Gallery in Switzerland for the “2003 Art in America” show. Was selected as one of two artists sent to travel to Zurich with the show representing the gallery for the opening.
  • Lone Mountain Gallery.
  • The Charles Pabst Gallery.
  • Art One Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ.

2002:

2001:

  • Apprenticeship with Artist Charles H. Pabst. as his assistant.
  • Art One Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ.
  • Co-hosted an instructional art video sent to high schools around the nation.