**[Reilan Sandoval](https://www.cohart.com/artbyrei/artworks)** is a visionary artist whose work explores the hidden layers of the human experience—spirituality, subconscious thought, and the mysteries beneath the surface of daily life. Her paintings often build in emotional intensity, always culminating with the eyes—her favorite element and the final piece to bring each subject to life.

Her work now delves into themes of divine timing, hidden truths, and prophetic symbolism, inspired by Biblical narratives and the tension between seen and unseen realities. Through vibrant colors and layered symbolism, Reilan seeks not only to captivate viewers but to awaken something deeper within them—prompting reflection, stirring the spirit, and inviting them to consider the divine design behind their own existence.

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##### Can you describe your artistic process? What materials and techniques do you typically use?

My artistic process begins with a flash of inspiration inside my mind. It usually comes to me while I go on a run, when my subconscious mind can wander freely without distraction. I’ll get a picture in my head of a scene, or pattern, or setting. I’ll write it down and if I can’t stop thinking about the idea, I know it’s a good one. 

I usually draw it out loosely on canvas until I match it to what I see in my mind. Painting is my favorite part. Oils are my preferred paint, but I use acrylic depending on what I’m painting and how quickly I want it dry. I have a methodical approach to painting where I paint everything but the person first. Then I usually paint the person in black and white and glaze my desired pattern onto the skin. Because eyes are my favorite part of the painting, I always paint them last.

##### What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you start your journey?

All my life I enjoyed drawing. As a child, I would spend hours in my room making illustrations and stories, compiling them into books. I wanted to be an author/illustrator for children’s books (I still do). When I turned 17, I began painting as an outlet during my transition into adulthood. I became obsessed. Hours turned into days that I spent isolated in my room, skipping meals just to paint and taking breaks only for naps. 

When I would finish a piece, there was an intense confirmation inside of me that told me this was what I was supposed to do.  


##### What themes or concepts are you most passionate about exploring in your work?

I’m most passionate about exploring themes that reflect the spiritual, the subconscious, and the unseen truths beneath the surface of everyday life. Much of my work is inspired by Biblical prophecies, human nature, and the hidden patterns that govern our minds and understanding. I use bold colors and intricate motifs to communicate deeper meanings—some that I explain and others that I leave open for the viewer to interpret. I’m especially drawn to the idea of time running out, the contrast between appearance and reality, and the divine creativity that flows through us when we’re connected to the creator.

##### What message or emotion do you hope to convey through your art?

I hope to stir a sense of awakening—emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. My art invites viewers to pause, reflect, and question what they see versus what truly is. I want people to feel both captivated by the beauty and unsettled by the deeper truths beneath it. There’s always more going on than meets the eye. Ultimately, I hope to plant seeds that lead people to seek something higher—to realize there’s divine intention behind life, time, and even their own existence.

##### What role does spontaneity versus planning play in your creative process?

Both play a vital role in my process, but it often begins with inspiration from spontaneous thoughts, dreams, or spiritual insights that strike me during quiet moments especially while going on a run. From there, I sit with the concept and let it grow organically. Sometimes I plan the composition loosely, other times I draw it out depending on how complex the painting will be. But I always leave room for intuition to guide the details. Patterns, colors, and symbolism often evolve as I work, almost as if the painting is revealing itself to me. So while there’s structure, the process remains fluid—part vision, part discovery.

##### If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

While I deeply admire artists like Margaret Keane for her emotional depth, Gustav Klimt for his intricate patterns, and Wayne Thiebaud for his vibrant use of color and form, the artist I’m most inspired by is our Creator. His designs are infinite, layered with meaning, and full of life. Every day, I feel honored to co-create with Him—to reflect a fraction of His artistry through my own hands. That collaboration is ongoing, and it’s the one that fuels everything I create.

##### How do you define success as an artist? What does it look like for you?

For me, success isn’t measured by fame or fortune, but by impact and purpose. If my art can move someone—make them pause, feel something deeper, or question the world around them—then that’s success. I also see success as staying true to my vision, and creating work that reflects the values and spiritual truths I hold.Ultimately, it means fulfilling my purpose as a visual storyteller and being faithful with the creativity that I’ve been entrusted in.

##### Can you share a specific project or piece that holds special significance for you? Why is it important?

One piece that holds deep significance for me is a painting I’m currently working on that features a series of vintage clocks on a wall—each with its own expression and time that reads 6:15. They stare at the central clock whose time differs by displaying just seconds from midnight. It represents the urgency of our times and the contrast between those who are awake and those still distracted by the world. This piece is important because it speaks to my core message: time is running out, and most people don’t realize it. The painting is colorful and whimsical on the surface, but layered with meaning—a reflection of how truth is often hidden in plain sight.

##### How do you engage with your audience, and what do you hope they take away from your work?

I engage with my audience by creating visual stories that invite curiosity. I often explain parts of the meaning behind my work, but I also leave space for personal interpretation—because I believe that art speaks differently to everyone. My hope is that viewers walk away not just appreciating the color or technique, but feeling something stir within them. I want them to sense that there’s more to life than what we see, maybe even be inspired to seek deeper truth, beauty, and purpose.

##### What do you think is the most important quality for an artist to possess?

I believe the most important quality an artist can have is authenticity—creating from a place of truth rather than trends. When your work is rooted in something intrinsic, whether it be spiritual, emotional, or deeply personal, it carries weight. I also believe it’s important to stay humble and curious, allowing yourself to be led by something greater than you.

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Reilan Sandoval creates art that channels the spiritual, symbolic, and subconscious—revealing hidden truths beneath everyday life.

Blog

Spotlight: Reilan Sandoval on Truth and Beauty

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