Meet Reagan Corbett: Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Reagan Corbett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Reagan, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Easily, work ethic. I think people assume artists have a pretty laid back job. They think I sit around and paint all day, which I do sometimes. That’s the enjoyable part! But there’s so much work that goes into running a successful business as an artist. I wouldn’t have made it to where I am today without working hard every single day on things that aren’t as fun as painting such as billing and invoices, project management, social media scheduling and just cleaning the studio.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I focus on contemporary pop art. Most of my paintings feature iconic figures from the past which I often adorn with bubble gum or pixelated faces. I draw a lot of inspiration from the 50s and 60s, especially my color palettes. I also love creating mixed media with vintage photography and paint or colored pencils. I love adding my own flair to such lovely, old pictures. I think the final product turns out really beautifully. I am most excited for my upcoming move to Dallas. Houston really built me as an artist, and I thrived creatively here. But as I continue to grow, I’m excited to take what I’ve leaned here and explore a new city. I will miss Houston so much, but can’t wait to see what Dallas has to offer. I got to where I am today by showing up at the studio every single day and working hard. When you run your own business, there aren’t really any days off. If I am not answering emails, working on commissions and planning print releases, then no one is! It’s not a glamorous answer but it’s the truth. The only way to succeed as an artist is to work harder than you thought possible. In a world that doesn’t seem as transparent as it once was, I want people to know that remaining authentic is a top priority for me. I think it’s important to stay true to yourself as your brand grows, so I work really hard to keep it real at ReagART!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I’m moving to Dallas, I’ll tell you all the spots I’m going to hit before leaving the city. On my last day in Houston, I would wake up and get a healthy breakfast at Vibrant or something naughty at Avalon depending on the mood. Then I’d head to Hermann Park to walk around the reflection pond. I’d visit The Menil next, my favorite museum in Houston. Nothing beats a day trip to the Menil. I’d have to pop into Jerry’s Artarama since I’m there basically every day. It’s hands down the best art supply store in the city and I’m probably their number one customer. In a pre-COVID world, I’d end the day dancing and having tequila at Armando’s. God, I’m gonna miss this city!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe so much of my success to the The University of Texas College of Fine Arts. The education I received from UT was such a solid foundation for my art career. I majored in Studio Art with a minor in Art History. The professors there are so knowledgeable and really prepared me to succeed as a full time artist. I couldn’t have done it without them, and the support of my family.

Website: https://www.reagartcollection.com/
Instagram: @reag_art