Medium of Choice: Oil
"I’ve been using Trekell brushes for years now, ever since my student days in New York City. I needed brushes that were durable, high-quality, and long-lasting, and Trekell brushes got the job done. They’re super affordable, incredibly well-made, and create beautiful brushstrokes every time. You can really tell how much thought and care go into their products, and how much they care about their customers and the art community at large.
The Opal line has become a staple in my studio. I adore using Opals when I need a versatile brush. They’re perfect for loose, sketchy passages but also capable of handling fine details when needed. It’s the all-in-one brush. They have a soft yet springy feel and create gorgeous edges. I also adore Spectrum brushes, since I can create softer, more refined details with them. These two brush types complement each other so well! I never paint without these two models.
I also can’t recommend Trekell’s Brush Restorer enough. It’s been a lifesaver for me, and it helps my brushes maintain a sharp point. It also smells simply amazing, which makes me want to use it again and again. There’s no need to rinse it off, either, so I can immediately get to painting the next day.
It’s truly an honor to work with Trekell and to be part of their Pro Team. They’re beyond kind to their community and ensure that professional artists like myself can rely on their products. That kind of quality is hard to find, and genuinely makes all the difference."
Sandra Sanchez is a Southern California-based artist specializing in realistic portraiture, known for work that emphasizes sensitivity, nuance, and a strong sense of vitality. Her paintings aim to capture not only likeness, but the psychological presence and quiet humanity of her subjects.
Her interest in visual storytelling began early, shaped by childhood visits to the Getty Museum as well as a deep engagement with video games and animated films. While she initially began painting through digital media, her desire to pursue traditional realism led her to train at the Grand Central Atelier in New York City, where she completed the rigorous core program. Here, Sandra developed a strong command of oil painting and learned to paint realism.
Nowadays, Sandra commits to recreating the humanity of her subjects through the use of sensitive colors, fluid rhythms, naturalistic drawing, and identifying nuanced expressions for a strong visual impact. Since returning to California in 2022, Sandra has continued to refine her practice through sustained observation and exploring new themes, all while maintaining the technical rigor central to her work. Sandra is equally passionate about teaching and mentoring emerging artists. She mentors students to paint what they truly enjoy, with the firm belief that technical mastery and personal vision must grow together.
Her work has been featured in the Fine Art Connoisseur Magazine and recognized with the Neil Patterson Award of Excellence. She is a two-time Hudson River Fellow, and her paintings continue to evolve as she explores subtle expression, gesture, and the lived presence of her sitters. Sandra has also taught workshops nationwide and has exhibited work in the US and Peru. Sandra currently lives with her three beloved cats and is the co-founder of the Peru Academy of Art in Lima, Peru.
Artist Links: Instagram, Website
SANDRA'S PICKS:
