A Glimpse Into My World
I’ve been drawing and painting for longer than I can remember. Over time, my outlet turned into passion and discipline. After many years of working as an illustrator and traditional portrait painter, the influence of the wildlife and history of the West intersected with my desire to create more expressive and gestural art.
My career has given me the chance to show work in galleries like Aspen, Jackson, Scottsdale, Santa Fe, Bozeman, and Whitefish, among many others, furthering my love of the West and all it has to offer.
I’m as committed as ever to creating originals for collectors. At the same time, I’ve expanded into limited edition print releases to open the door for more people to enjoy my work while keeping each piece special and exclusive.
My hope is that when you see my work, whether it’s in a gallery, in your home, or during a print release, it feels alive, it feels true, and it gives you a quiet moment that reconnects you with a sense of awe. I’d love to invite you into my world, a place where art isn’t just seen but felt.
I hope you find something that speaks to you.
That’s why I paint.
Edge of the West Legends
Your Invitation to Exclusive Access
Every piece I create is rooted in a love for the West, its wildlife, its history, and its enduring spirit. I share the inspiration and stories behind the work so collectors can connect with each painting on a deeper level. Print releases happen twice per year, and painting releases are announced throughout the year. I also host occasional giveaways and share upcoming events with my collectors. Join my Collector’s Email List to be the first to know and get Early Access when it happens.
David Frederick Riley:
The Story Behind the Art.
What Collectors Have To Say…
I am honoured to own some of David Frederick Riley’s gorgeous oil paintings and proudly have them hung in my home in Montana. David’s emotion and vivid detail in every piece is captivating... I personally love his wildlife collection that captures the spirit and brings animals to life with striking realism. His masterful techniques breathe movement and personality, making them feel as if they step off the canvas. His work carries a quiet sense of mystery that invites the viewer to look deeper hidden in the eyes. His art is not just seen, it’s felt. I had the pleasure of meeting David at a gallery in Bozeman MT and not only is he an incredible talent, but a wonderful, kind gentleman.
Stunning representation of majestic North America animals. Mr Riley’s painting detail and unique technique captured our attention and we designed our first level of our new home around 3 of his large works. Timeless and a focal point for us and our guests.
David, we received our painting shipment last week... Perfect timing! We were just finishing the furnishing install at the new house. As we uncrated each one, we were more and more blown away... They are BEAUTIFUL! It’s impossible to say which one is our favorite because they all are. As an architect, I find your work is truly an art, adding so much to the experience of all the spaces where they live. I have such an appreciation for what you do, the care, proportion, values, and thought you put into each piece. Thanks for being such a big part of making this house a home. Hope to see you soon, thanks again!
What an honor it is to surround myself with David Riley's art. It is an absolute pleasure to walk by his paintings every day and feel connected and at peace. David captures human and animal spirit with expressive eyes. I catch myself staring at those eyes and not being able to look away... David humanizes his animals in a way that makes people humble and humane... as he is himself.
David's paintings capture the Beauty and Essence of wildlife with expressions that make you believe you know what they’re thinking. He is unparalleled in his field.
Instagram @davidrileyart
“My hope for my artwork is that it stops people, gives them a chance to breathe, lets them connect, reconnect to themselves, reconnect to nature, reconnect to our source, and bring some joy and wonder and awe into our daily lives.”
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