Thomas Arvid’s remarkable, bold paintings of wine have gained this young Atlanta artist a national reputation as a rising star. By combining super-realist images with abstract compositions, Arvid creates paintings that appeal to both traditionalists and modernists. His original approach to the still-life is as refreshing as it is breathtaking.

Given the level of craftsmanship, detail and expertise in his work, it is surprising to learn that this sought after artist is self-taught. But, growing up in a blue-collar family in Detroit, Michigan, Arvid was not encouraged to pursue fine art as a career. “It just wasn’t an option,” Arvid admits.

But after leaving Detroit and touring the great museums of Europe, Arvid was inspired to pick up the brush. “I had always been drawing, sculpting, painting murals, doing creative, artistic things, but I never thought that’s what I could do. Not until that tour of Europe. Then I realized that if I set my mind to it, I could be more than someone who makes art on the side. I knew then that I could be an artist.”

Since then, Arvid’s work has been showcased in galleries across the country and seen in numerous publications, including a recent spread in Wine Spectator Magazine. His work is also found in prominent collections across the country, and is a particular favorite amongst wineries and vineyard owners who acknowledge him as today’s preeminent painter of wine.

When asked why he choose wine as his soul subject, Arvid remembers:

“The hardest thing about being an artist is deciding what to create next, because really, the possibilities are endless. Early on, I knew I needed to focus, to not be all over the place, so I decided to paint things that were Red: Red Converse, Red Coke cans, Red Radio Flyer wagons. All those red icons we see around us, and red wine was one. That first wine painting had so much impact. I did another, and another. Then I realized. This is it. It has all the elements that intrigue and challenge me as an artist: Color, contrast, cool and warm surfaces, a range of color and texture, and an unlimited number of possible compositions.”

In addition to being a painter of wine, Arvid is a lover of wine - and his passion for his subject keeps his paintings fresh and exciting.

Click here to view photos of several pieces from Thomas Arvid's Gallery Show.