Tricia Reilly-Matthews’ images uniquely capture the tenderness of childhood. Her luscious pastels of angelic children have appeared on many greeting cards, children’s magazines, and puzzles, and her Unicef imagery has earned her worldwide recognition. Tricia’s strong foundation in illustration combines with her playful compositions to reveal an engaging story in many of her works. She cites Bougereau, Mary Cassatt, Jessie Wilcox Smith, and Edward Hopper as her greatest influences.
Tricia attended Parson’s School of Design, later receiving a master’s degree in illustration from the College of New Rochelle. She is also a K-5 art teacher. She is inspired by the children she teaches, and from years of watching her son Christopher grow. She also finds inspiration from her faith, family, and friends.
“My hope is that my artwork will reflect the sense of wonderment, innocence, and simplicity in childhood that we sometimes lose as adults.”
Tricia Reilly-Matthews paints from her river view studio in the lower Hudson Valley where she resides with husband Jon, son Christopher, and puppy Rembrandt. |