Featured image: Entangled, Coral Raines, 2022, acrylic, 40 x 30 in. / 101.6 x 76.2 cm.
Coral Raines transforms everyday subjects into poignant and whimsical art.
Coral Raines is a Montana-based artist who uses animals and nature to explore humor, identity, and resilience through vibrant and symbolic artworks.
Through vibrant color palettes and layered textures, her works invite viewers to find meaning and joy in unexpected places. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and Montana's natural beauty, Raines infuses her animal portraits with humor, symbolism, and emotional depth. Below, we explore three captivating pieces from her collection.
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Safety in Numbers, Coral Raines, 2023, acrylic, 40 x 30 in. / 101.6 x 76.2 cm.
In Safety in Numbers, Raines presents a horse adorned with playful zebra-striped legs and a trio of birds perched on its back, set against a vibrant blue backdrop. The juxtaposition of the horse’s gentle demeanor and its unexpected patterns highlights the fragile balance of safety and vulnerability. The colorful flowers below evoke a sense of fleeting serenity. Inspired by her experience with a loved one facing anxiety, Raines channels the weight of life’s challenges into a visually uplifting piece. The acrylic work’s bold contrasts create a narrative of resilience and hope, a reminder that lighthearted moments can emerge even amidst struggles.
Impostor, Coral Raines, 2023, mixed media, 40 x 30 in. / 101.6 x 76.2 cm.
The title Impostor reflects Raines’ deeper exploration of identity and audacity. This mixed-media piece features a goat surrounded by whimsical flowers and butterflies, with an acrylic underlay and rich oil glazes adding depth and texture. The goat’s inquisitive expression and its tiny crown serve as metaphors for unapologetically claiming space, regardless of expectations. Through layers of vibrant colors and playful motifs, Raines captures the duality of the goat’s character—both mischievous and commanding. It’s a playful yet profound reminder to embrace one’s unique place in the world.
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Papa Bert, Coral Raines, 2021, acrylic, 40 x 30 in. / 101.6 x 76.2 cm.
Papa Bert, part of Raines’ Montana-inspired series, is an ode to the rugged charm of the region. Featuring a majestic goat with flowing fur, the painting’s earthy tones and bold brushstrokes reflect the artist’s connection to Montana’s landscape and its inhabitants. The goat’s composed stance and wise demeanor bring an unexpected gravitas to the piece, challenging viewers to reconsider their relationship with these often-overlooked creatures. The artwork encapsulates Raines’ ability to spotlight the mundane and elevate it into something remarkable.
Across her animal portraits, Raines weaves themes of humor, individuality, and resilience. Whether it’s the zebra-striped horse in Safety in Numbers, the confident goat in Impostor, or the stately figure in Papa Bert, each piece offers a lens into the whimsical and metaphorical potential of everyday life. Through vibrant visuals and thoughtful symbolism, Raines invites us to find beauty in imperfection and strength in vulnerability.
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