Reflecting on my studio practices
- Brian Riley LMT

- 18 hours ago
- 2 min read
I have been reflecting on my studio practices and the direction it has taken over the years. One of the main focuses has been developing a personal language and symbolism that is uniquely my own. In an era where everyone is encouraged to constantly produce and showcase their work, carving out an authentic voice is challenging. I often see artists celebrated for work that, to me, seems to echo others. While some may find value in referencing past art, I have never felt drawn to that approach. This might explain why I spend so much time in my studio, prioritizing the process itself over presenting my work to an audience. Sharing my art publicly has always been difficult for me. I do not enjoy displaying my work and inviting attention to it. On the rare occasions I have managed to do so, I am met with overwhelming anxiety and depression. For me, showing my work is never easy, nor is opening up about these feelings. I am not much of a talker; I express myself best through my work.

5ft x 5 ft acrylic on canvas 2025
This introspective nature also led me to my second passion: massage therapy. In this practice, I use my knowledge and skills to help people—often without words. I see my clients as living canvases, not blank slates but richly layered and complex, each deserving thoughtful attention and care. Similarly, in my art, I am most engaged when I am deep into a canvas, working to bring order to chaos. In both practices, I find myself in a creative flow, guided by intuition, experience, and a hands-on understanding earned over years of dedication.
I know I am not alone—there are many artists deeply engaged in their own practices, developing something distinctively personal. This is the art that inspires me: work that reveals depth, a journey, struggle, transformation, and evolution. I long for art that goes beyond mere illustration and instead speaks to the complexity of individual experience.
I hope this message finds all of you well. As I continue to cultivate both my art and my bodywork, I am excited to announce a new display of my paintings will soon be featured at the wellness studio. When you come in for your next session, I invite you to take a moment to enjoy the art on the walls—each piece created with the same intention and care that guides my hands in my practice. If a particular work resonates with you, know that my art is available for purchase, offering the chance to bring a bit of that creative and healing energy home.

18" x 24" acrylic on canvas 20024

painting studio 2026











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