Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Reedy.
Brian, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Since moving to Miami in 1994, I’ve maintained a professional life as an artist. I’m best known for my block prints, a technique that’s like making a giant stamp. First I draw on the block, then carve away the unwanted areas, then roll ink over the surface, and then hand-print it on paper. For many years I was represented by Dorsch Gallery in Miami and was featured in international art fairs such as Bridge in Chicago, Gramercy in NYC, and Scope in Miami.
About 10 years ago I began selling my work through e-commerce: first with Etsy and now with Big Cartel. Some of the galleries that I have and or still working with are Outre Gallery in Australia, Bottleneck Gallery in New York, and The Mystic Museum in Los Angeles. Clients that I’ve made artwork and illustrations for include Marvel, Fortnite, Disney, and Uniqlo. I was invited by Vince Gilligan, the creator of Breaking Bad, to contribute to the official Breaking Bad art book. I’ve collaborated with businesses like Plant The Future and Y.Chroma Apparel. Over the past 4 years, I’ve designed over 40 shirts for Hot Topic, which can be found at stores nationwide. Since incorporating my brand as Brian Reedy, Inc.,
I’ve experienced considerable growth in my business each year. I consider myself very lucky to make images that appeal to a wide audience and allow me the freedom to make the kind of artwork I like to make. My philosophy is to work hard but has fun at the same time. Luckily I really enjoy what I do, so maintaining a strong work ethic is easy!
I’m always looking forward to the next chapter in my artistic career!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I’m not sure that anyone’s path is smooth or without obstacles. Sure I’ve had my fair share of struggles, but I feel that it’s all part of the process. Art can be a very unpredictable business, and there are no guarantees for success.
I face each day with the fact that my road will have its ups and downs. In my opinion, the failures and setbacks in work and in life help make the good times and success sweeter. And the fact that there are no guarantees in my line of work keeps me focused so I can minimize the struggle.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in making block prints, a centuries-old technique that involves hand-carving and printing wood or linoleum. I’m known for whimsical imagery and pop culture references, especially for my love of movies and animation. The bold and graphic nature of block printing is a perfect match for the types of images I create. I print exclusively on Lokta, a hand-made paper from Nepal that enhances my artwork with its rustic charm.
When I work with apparel companies, I simply send them a digital file of the block print and then they print the images on shirts or products. I think the reason that my shirts are so successful is that the block-print style looks so different from everything else. When you walk into a Hot Topic store you can immediately pick out which shirts I designed. I’m proud of the body of work I’ve created over the years and hope it will leave a lasting impression.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
My love of movies, comics, anime, and books is a constant source of inspiration for me and always gives me plenty of ideas to run with. I also love traveling and visiting museums – the places I visit and the art I see are like fuel for the imagination.
Contact Info:
- Website: brianreedy.bigcartel.com
- Instagram: @brianreedy
- Facebook: @brianreedy
