People:
Thomas Arvid

Wines Captured in Paint Refine
Wine Country – The Artist Behind the Brush

In the Spring of 2008, I went by a St. Helena gallery named Images Fine Art and spotted a piece of work that had a magnetic effect on me.  I am the first to proclaim that I am not an art critic nor can I draw a straight line with the aid of a ruler, but I do appreciate the people who present interesting, exciting, and relatable art that I never tire looking upon.  I cannot define good art; however, I do know good art when I see it, and this art was beyond magnificent. 

I soon discovered the artist was Thomas Arvid – this month’s “People” feature.  Arvid is widely acclaimed for painting wine subjects in a style called ‘photo realistic’, which approaches being an oxymoron for he captures more than a photograph could ever capture!

In July, I contacted Ellen Adair Wyche, who owns the PR firm that represents Mr. Arvid, to tell her about the “People” Web site feature I planned.  Intrigued, she suggested that, rather than just hear it from her, it would be telling for me to look at a few blogs and articles to best understand the connection felt by collectors and enthusiasts to Arvid and his extraordinary work.  She was right.  Here’s what I found…

Thomas Arvid is a dedicated, self-taught artist who strives to capture the essence of the unpretentious enjoyment of an elegant and charming lifestyle.  He prides himself in giving his clients more than they expect, and, in a humble way, he knows he is the best at his profession.  I found that all who get acquainted with Arvid feel that his creativity and openness is engaging - each time he steps out of his Kennesaw, Georgia studio, he connects with friends old and new.   A frequent traveler, the artist finds inspiration for his work through numerous friends and relationships when he visits Napa Valley and the surrounding Wine Country. 
In a word, he is “real,” and his affable personality welcomes all to talk with him about his art, his love of wine and, of course, Wine Country. 

With these personal attributes and natural talent, one would expect near perfection in his work, and I have found, even to the trained eye, one cannot find flaws.  Meticulous in their detail, each piece can take up to three months to complete, as he perfects nearly seven layers of oil.  One article from Art Business News said it best, when they credited him with "launching a major art trend…" with his oversized still life compositions of wine and the rituals surrounding its consumption. He has truly redefined the modern still life by infusing an overflowing passion and astounding viewers with his mastery of light, depth and reflection. 

People from around the world seem to have found a gem – one that I could continue to exalt, but do yourself a favor and go to his Web site at www.thomasarvid.com, and see for yourself.   You can also find him around the nation visiting galleries and participating in high-end wine events as the official artist (see calendar below).  Be forewarned, his work is addictive and commands a price that is commensurate with top quality, but what a bargain for a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork by such a renowned artist.

Meet and Greet the Artist:

Content Courtesy of thomasarvid.com.
© 2009 Thomas Arvid. All Rights Reserved.