"Sierra Reese" Painting

I am a Photorealist oil painter based in Sonoma County, CA. Whether painting a wine themed still-life or tropical figurative scenes, my paintings impart a palpable sense of identity, scale and a technique devoted to detail. Containing many biographical clues, my paintings make an allegory out of my life, illustrating my adoration of the colorful world around us, the genius in the creation of woman, and symbols that capture exultant moments in time.

I love to focus on the small details while painting. In fact, at first glance my paintings are often mistaken for photo- graphs. Viewers receive a delightful shock when they learn the truth. The careful rendering of reality draws the eyes in for a closer look. The meticulous details then take the eye on a journey scanning the entire painting, and in the process designating particular parts of the work as “favorite parts” that the eye must return to.

By enlarging the scale of an old wine cork, the common now becomes iconic. Such objects take on new significance when executed with photorealistic accuracy. The audience is invited to examine details often overlooked. As a Wine Country resident, I know that wine is more than a beverage. It is an experience and represents timeless moments. My corks are meant to bring you back to that moment.

I enjoy painting figuratives in a similar way. Close-cropped portraits reveal only a portion of the woman. Careful consideration is given to the rhythm of gesture, the angle of pose, and the details in her understated dress. My mysterious girls wear fashion with confidence, they enjoy colorful landscapes and while they appreciate your attention, they implore you to look closely and spend time admiring the lush landscapes around them.

While my work is clearly representational, the narrative is meant to be ambiguous and unique to each viewer. I want the painting to relate to you, your life and the singular experiences that shaped it.