Fine Artist & Teacher

CHRISTOPHER REED, PAINTER & TEACHER

As a landscape painter living in Portland, Maine, I continuously develop a greater awareness and connection to the natural environment. My objective in painting is to capture a feeling of a particular place through various lighting conditions, whether it be along the ocean, on a wooded trail, or from a mountaintop.

I find inspiration through American Tonalism, the paintings of J.M.W Turner, Charles Francios Daubigny, and Claude Monet, to name a few. Their work is conceived in the moment, in nature, but simultaneously interpreted in their own way. I want others to be inspired by the play of light upon a given landscape, finding meaning as one chooses. Ultimately, I strive to generate a new way of perceiving the natural landscape, to feel more connected to it while experiencing a greater sense of ease, just as these great painters have done before me.

My greatest education beyond college has largely been nature. By connecting to nature through close observation, I have gained tremendous insight into value, color, form, texture, and the overall energy of the landscape. 

Cultivating awareness has been my other teacher, allowing me to experience a particular place with all senses more fully. Cultivating this awareness has been a personal journey on which I’m always learning.

Teaching Modality for Art Classes in Portland, Maine

I use mindfulness techniques in my classes, which I find to be the most powerful tool in creating art. Focusing one’s attention on the breath greatly minimizes the natural inhibitions of self-expression.  Breath work also helps instill a positive mindset for moving forward when frustrations occur. 

Additionally, practicing non-judgment of ourselves and others only leads to better artwork. And while I teach, I weave these practices into my lessons so you, my student, can share in these affirming experiences firsthand.

I aim to help you navigate your creative path that brings personal meaning in a safe environment. I always see the good, not the bad, in any given artwork because I see your artwork as a “new beginning” of a necessary process that does not strive for a particular endpoint.  With patience and persistence, beautiful things can emerge, as I’ve seen in working with students for many years. There’s so much joy in watching the blossoming of a student’s unique style of creating art.

Throughout my teaching experience, I’ve had the great honor of imparting my skills to others. But the real magic happens when things start to flow naturally, and we discover our inspiration in one another. I am particularly grateful for that, as I want to bring out the best in each student.