S.V. WILLIAMS

REALM OF THE TRANQUIL BEAST

mini feature

October 25th - November 16th, 2025

Reception: First Friday, November 7th• 5-9pm​

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Arch Enemy Arts presents REALM OF THE TRANQUIL BEAST by S.V. Williams, a collection of five new paintings that mark the artist’s first body of work done in oil. Oil paints typically have a richer, more luminous quality than acrylics, but their slow drying time, which allows artists to create softer, more sumptuous transitions, can be extremely difficult to master. 

 

“Creating these pieces has been a profound learning experience since I switched to oil paints. The most important lessons I’ve taken away are the value of patience, the importance of being more fluid and intentional with each brushstroke, and the need to truly engage with what I’m creating—rather than simply relying on familiar routines or staying within my comfort zone. Visually, I pushed myself in a different direction, experimenting with new textures, earthy color palettes, and more abstract elements; I became less interested in clarity and more focused on emotion and atmosphere.” - S.V. Williams

 

The result is a collection of effortless imaginings, surreal animals, and mystical forms rendered with a new level of depth that is absolutely striking. Williams’ insane style of layering interconnected and flowing shapes lends beautifully to the natural glow of oils. What’s more, we’re seeing a new push with color and variation that adds brightness and intensity; we can’t wait to see where he takes these new skills next!

 

S.V. Williams (b. 1981) is based in Sacramento, California, where he was born and raised. A self-taught artist, Williams is inspired by sci-fi, horror films, comics, and magazines as well as the street art and graffiti scenes of the West Coast. He began showing with Arch Enemy Arts in 2021, and REALM OF THE TRANQUIL BEAST is the artist’s second feature with the gallery.

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REALM OF THE TRANQUIL BEAST will be on view from October 25th - November 16th, 2025
Sold works will begin to ship the week starting November 23rd, unless other rush shipping arrangements have been made. 

Items marked with a red dot have already been sold.

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