Brien Cole

Brien Cole's paintings have been described as detailed and alluring, with the ability to lure the viewer into the painting. Often initially mistaken for photographs, viewers are amazed at the level of detail in his paintings; often saying that they look 3-D. He is well recognized for his still life compositions focusing on wine and bourbon themes.

As a young boy, he displayed a natural gift for art, a skill that was nurtured by his mother, who herself is a naturally creative person. Throughout his teen years, he continued to hone his skills, even having the distinct honor of having his paintings selected to be displayed at the State Capital building in Annapolis, Maryland.

After high school, Brien joined the military and earned an Associate’s degree in computer programming. After his military service, he began working as a software engineer for the Department of the Defense; still maintaining a love and appreciation for art but not actively pursuing it.

Not until 2010 (at the insistence of his wife to do a painting for their home) that he began painting again. It was then that he realized just how much he missed art. He began using oils and taking lessons from Flemish oil painter Scott Royston, which proved to be the springboard for his art career. Since then, Brien's paintings have been acquired by collectors both nationally and internationally. He has been invited for gallery appearances and charity events often doing live paintings, amazing viewers with his startling work.

Wineries such as Barboursville, Perigeaux and Elk Run Vineyards collect his work to hang in their tasting rooms. In addition to oils, he is also accomplished in other mediums, including watercolor, charcoal and pencil. His work has been commissioned by wineries, winemakers and private collectors alike who want to commemorate special moments over their favorite vintages. He has been a repeated invited guest to many wine festivals and wine charity events. His work celebrates remembering the most precious moments of life.