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Artist at Arizona Fine Art Expo selected as Oscar nominee swag bag artist for third year

Arizona Fine Art Expo artist Reian Williams
Posted at 8:37 PM, Feb 24, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-25 00:53:54-05

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Inside the Oscar nominees swag bags, they'll find 50 unique gifts.

Gifts ranging from a luxury vacation for two, a choice of four exotic destinations, to Pepperidge Farm Milano Cookies. Or a commissioned work of art from Reian Williams.

"I had no idea that I would be able to do this opportunity," said Williams, who is presenting artwork at the Arizona Fine Art Expo.

After the first time, he was asked to be the artist for the Oscar swag bag. The 91st Academy Awards marks the third year in a row Williams has been the swag bag artist.

"As an artist, you're trying to get out into the public and what better way to get into the public than to do artwork for stars," Williams said.

Williams will commission a piece of art worth $10,000, for any of the 25 eligible celebrities who receive a swag bag. William's won't say what stars he's painted for, respecting their privacy but does say it's a humbling experience.

"It's been amazing, and you know what, they're the most down to earth people," Williams said.

Williams can be found painting at the Arizona Fine Art Expo in Scottsdale, until March 24th.