“What are you doing here, wasting your talent!?” This is the response I have always received from co-workers at my ‘real’ jobs when they see examples of my artwork, and hence, the origin of the “Wasted Talent Studio” name.
My painting technique is a direct and aggressive application that provides texture, movement, and narrative. Whether my subject is a shotgun house, a food still life, a street parade, or a coastline sunset, I want my paintings to draw viewers into the scene while sparking memories and emotions. My goal to preserve moments and places before they “waste” away.
Originally from Southern Louisiana and now residing in Pensacola, Florida, Riece’s artwork depicts all that he loves about the Gulf Coast. From the architecture, food, and culture of New Orleans, to iconic Pensacola landmarks and landscapes, Riece’s paintings put the viewer in familiar places, evoking memories of past experiences or stories told by family and friends.
Riece’s art teacher, Lloyd Sensat, instilled within him the importance of preserving one’s home, culture, history, and environment by telling stories through art. Other artistic influences are Vincent Van Gogh’s use of bright color; James Michalopoulos’ skewed, loose painting style; Andy Warhol’s focus on the simplicity of everyday items; and Edward Hopper’s dramatic light and shadow placement.
Although he likes to use a variety of media to create art, Riece’s medium of choice is acrylic paint. His technique of mixing bright colors using loaded brushes or palate knives directly and boldly onto canvas brings his images to life with energy, movement, emotion, and texture.
original painting
I am not sure what street or ward in New Orleans this house is located, I just remember that it struck me. The graffiti marks on the house are like tattoos, each with its own meaning and story. I found it ironic that the graffiti includes the words “NOLA” and “LOVE” because this house has not received any love for some time. Like the City itself, it could sure use some.
framed ink drawing
What I enjoy most about this piece is at first you see the word "JAZZ," but if you look closer you can see snippets of instruments, a streetlight, a musician, and other images that evoke the feeling of NOLA - the Birthplace of Jazz.
