Forrest Sheperd

Wildfire

Oil on linen

14 x 20 inches

Bio:

Forrest Sheperd studied with Cesare Borgia, the principal instructor at the Reilly League of Artists in White Plains. Mr. Borgia founded the Reilly League, following the painting techniques of the late Frank Reilly. Forrest’s neoclassical painting style is directly related to this early training. His technique exemplifies a contemporary approach to realism, focusing on expression of form and volume on the two dimensional plane. Forrest believes that the craft of painting and drawing is as important as the art of painting and drawing. After pursuing multiple degrees in Wildlife Biology and working for various government entities, he and his wife ran successful small business in Westchester. The sale of that business in 2024 allows Forrest to paint full time

Statement:

In a world inundated with fleeting images and rapid consumption, I hope that my work can be a testament to the enduring power of observation and skilled craftsmanship. As a contemporary realism painter, my art explores the nuanced interplay between light, form, and emotion. I am drawn to the power of realism not just as a technique, but as a means of exploring the subtleties of human experience. So, I try to bridge the gap between the tangible and the intangible, creating a visceral connection between art and its audience. Ultimately, my goal as an artist is to celebrate the beauty of our shared human experience, while inspiring a renewed appreciation for the world around us. In each piece, I try to capture moments of quiet revelation, inviting viewers to see the familiar through fresh eyes and rediscover the profound in what is seemingly simple.