Darren Reid is a British contemporary realist painter based in Derbyshire, UK.
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Reviews
"...his painting practice might be labeled as photorealist, but Reid's interpretation of the images he chooses to paint has a narrative quality not always prevalent in photographs..." Alia Al-Sabi - DailyServing.com
"Low Winter Sun, another incredibly realistic painting of a Derby high street by Darren, which was shortlisted for the John Ruskin Prize this year" Gemma Mullin - MailOnline
"Darren Reid's commended work, a superbly executed, hyper-realistic acrylic painting entitled A New View - Holiday Inn, Derby, redefines our notions of beauty" Stephanie Billen - Buxton Fringe Chair
Recording Britain Now, Millenium Gallery Sheffield "....a collection of new works whittled down from 600 to 23, all vying for the 2014 John Ruskin Prize. Instead of the quaint pastoral scenes of Recording Britain, these present day works explore contemporary visions of urban, rural and social environments. The dark and brooding – and incredibly realistic – painting from Darren Reid is a highlight" Claire Thornley - Sheffield Culture Guide
"At first glance, looking at Darren Reid's work you might think he is a photographer – but you couldn't be more wrong. What appears initially to be a carefully composed photograph is in actual fact a very detailed and intricate painting. On the internet or in a newspaper photograph, or even in front of your eyes, it's difficult to spot the difference" Zena Hawley - Derby Telegraph
Instagram page
Compulsive Contents Review by Edd Norval
"...Most artists in the genre of realism copy a photograph with unfathomable attention to the subtleties and values of light and life. Reid uses photographs to inform the works, but also allows himself the freedom of interpretation. They're composites that tell whatever story he wants them to... ...Their exquisite detail is something to behold."
VICE interview Interview with Catherine Chapman of Vice - Creators Project, talking about my work, influences and process. "...Overcast skies and long stretches of shipping yards, British artist Darren Reid brings England to life in realistic paintings that many have likened to stepping into a photo..."
Daily Serving - International Publication for Contemporary Art by Alia Al-Sabi "...In painting, the technical rigor required to render a realistic image demands a concomitantly higher level of attention from the viewer; it calls for a deeper engagement with the subject matter at hand ...the skill and dexterity with which Reid produces his work is formidable."