A visual artist since 1986, Rese Cooley is driven to create works of art using acrylic, oils graphite and charcoal as well as ink. Rese is an accomplished artist who specializes in portraiture but also likes to paint a variety of other subjects. Rese is inspired by light falling on a person or object. Furthermore something he has heard or a subject which creates an emotional response will also inspire him to create. Although primarily self -taught, he has received training from the Boston Museum of Fine arts and is continuing his training with the Kiefaber Studio of Fine Arts in Greensboro, North Carolina, a classical training studio A disabled man himself, he has received help as well as work through organizations such as VAE, Arts access, and Mosaic lifespan studios. They have been instrumental in his ability to continue creating his work. He has received micro grants, presented webinars and workshops on helping organizations serve people with disabilities. He was accepted into an exhibit "Engaging the senses" wherein he created two 3-D art pieces. The exhibit was required to be tactile so people with certain disabilities could touch it and get a sense of the artwork. Unfortunately the exhibit was canceled due to covid. Rese lives with his wife and daughters in Greensboro, North Carolina.