About Thomas Arvid

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Thomas Arvid has achieved spectacular success and national acclaim with his still-life compositions of wine and the rituals surrounding its consumption. The self-taught artist translates abstract composition and a talent for portraying light and color into sumptuous, super-realistic oil paintings of wine. Atlanta-based Thomas Arvid unites the aesthetics of art and the sensual complexity of fine wine in his large-scale paintings that leave collectors and critics begging for more.

Thomas Arvid is redefining the modern still life with his refreshing portrayals of fine wine. Highly defined and richly textured, Arvid's paintings tell a story beyond an enjoyment of the good life. The viewer happens upon a moment in time; the half-filled glasses, hastily discarded cork and corkscrew, and empty bottle of wine relates a scene manipulated by Arvid's imagination. However, the viewer, as voyeur, is free to make up their own story, creating a personal connection between the viewer and the art. Perhaps this explains why Arvid's work has achieved such widespread popularity.

Arvid's talent has been embraced by the art world. Named one of the top "25 Artists You Should Know" by US Art magazine, Arvid's work receives critical acclaim for its ability to capture ancient traditions in a startlingly new style. Thomas Arvid was also featured in Wine Spectator, recognizing the overlap between the appreciation of fine art and fine wine.

The elite in the wine industry also identify Arvid as a prophet for the message that fine wine carries. Arvid's work captures the complexity and depth of wine, making his art a feature in the collections of influential wineries and winemakers. Ray Duncan of Silver Oak, Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climat, and Al Brounstein of Diamond Creek enjoy an Arvid in their home or offices. Gus Anderson of Conn Valley Vineyards raves, "Thomas Arvid's paintings are so realistic you might find yourself trying to pour a glass! They truly give evidence to the fact that he loves wine."

Not bad for a Detroit boy with no formal art training who never expected to make fine art a career. Arvid moved to Atlanta from Detroit in 1986 and discovered alternatives to the industrial, blue collar work ethic of his home. Growing up drawing, painting murals, and doing illustrations, Thomas Arvid thought his only choices for a career in art were as a commercial artist, sign-painter, or draftsman. His move to Atlanta also signaled a move into painting with oils, and eventually his discovery of the beauty of wine as a vehicle for his artistic vision.

Thomas Arvid's natural charisma and infectious enthusiasm for art and wine guarantee his continued success and popularity. Arvid's work and philosophy is perfectly embodied in his famous phrase, "Life without art is like dinner without wine. Why bother?"

Shaffer Fine  Shaffer Fine Art Gallery Portland Oregon  Art Gallery
Phone (503)
957-3301
info@shafferfineart.com

 


 


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