Reid learned to paint in New Mexico surrounded by the contrasting environments of desert and mountains, valleys and plateaus. His style has developed into a combination of academic and practical application of traditional painting principles. Reid tries to convey the beauty of the scenery while using impulse and judgment, spontaneity with technique he shows the rich magnificence of nature in ways that are too subtle for words. Originally a production potter, Reid was quickly bored with the monotonous routine that comes with commercial creativity. With an active love of the outdoors, Reid was enthralled with his surroundings while rock climbing, hiking and camping. However, a near fatal lumberyard accident crushed his lower back. Reid was told he would not walk or function again without significant pain and might not return to enjoy his relaxing pastimes. In despair, two separate surgeries resulted in nothing short of a miraculous recovery. However, the irony of spending six months in a body cast was not lost on this outdoor loving aficionado. Forced to recuperate with limited movement, Reid pushed his energy into practicing what became his favorite medium: oil paint. Set up in a tiny back-room studio with a chair to accommodate his body's limitations, Reid began to transform his passionate appreciation for the outdoors into artwork.
Reid's style has developed into a combination of academic and practical application of traditional painting principles, put on to canvas unlike any current artist. Focusing on the plein air style, Reid prefers to capture his scenes on location, capturing their moment in time while sometimes surpassing the real life attractiveness of the setting. "I try to convey the beauty of the scenery while using impulse and judgment, spontaneity with technique. I want to show the rich magnificence of what I am painting, with rendering an appreciation for why painted a particular subject." Reid sometimes completes his works out of his Minnetonka studio using his memory and studies to create larger works. This allows him to take the time and energy to guarantee the light, atmospheric charm that grace and authenticate his pieces.
He was quickly motivated to enter into the art realm full time after making his recovery but first had to complete his academic path. Upon receiving three Bachelor of Art Degrees in Art Education, Fine Art and Social Studies from the University of New Mexico, he readily accepted the opportunity of moving to Minnesota with his new bride, Mary Beth. Reid spent three years teaching art in secondary schools. But always ardent about his art, Reid started exclusively creating oil paintings as a career not long after. After spending several year in the hot climates of Texas, his palette has become refined to suggest the subtlest of colors, climates and landscapes.
As a result, Reid has painted all over the United States and internationally. He has extensive gallery representation. Reid competes frequently in juried shows that bring acclaim to his skills. To this end, one of Reid's pieces was announced the "Little Jewel" at the Plein Air 2000 competition in Tucson, wining national recognition for his style, color and use of atmosphere. Reid's natural modesty along with his radiant enthusiasm keeps him excited to talk about his passion for painting. To this end, Reid has been featured in countless articles, teaches adult painting classes out of his studio and has a national network of artistic friends. Reid's work has recently been seen at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival. Reid welcomes individuals to contact him as to anything art related, feel free to contact him at the number below.
Embracing a warm respect for the complexities of his career, Reid continues to pursue his passion, much to the delight of his audience.
All paintings on the gallery webpage are for sale. Please contact Reid Galey at (952) 906-1020
