Extra Cherry is a vibrant 12x9 inch original oil painting that celebrates the classic Old Fashioned cocktail with a playful twist—extra maraschino cherries for those who know what they want. Created by contemporary artist Richard Wieth, this energetic still life captures a rocks glass filled with amber whiskey, ice, and garnished with multiple bright red cherries.
Wieth's bold, expressive approach transforms this cocktail into a symphony of warm colors. The glass glows with layers of golden amber, burnt orange, and rich browns suggesting the whiskey and ice within. The cherries provide brilliant pops of deep crimson red with highlights of pink and white, creating focal points throughout the composition. An orange peel garnish curves elegantly in the foreground, its bright tangerine color adding another layer of warmth.
The background explodes with painterly energy—dynamic brushstrokes in deep blacks, warm browns, forest greens, golden yellows, blues, and touches of rust red create an atmospheric, celebratory mood. This isn't photographic realism but rather an impression of the cocktail experience: the warmth, the indulgence, the request for "extra cherry" that signals someone who appreciates the finer details.
At 12x9 inches, this painting strikes the perfect balance between substantial presence and versatile display options. Part of Richard Wieth's celebrated cocktail series, it brings sophisticated bar culture and artistic expression together. 
Extended Artist Statement
In Extra Cherry, Richard Wieth explores the Old Fashioned—arguably America's original cocktail and a drink experiencing renewed appreciation in today's craft cocktail renaissance. The title's playful specificity captures those personal preferences that make cocktail ordering an expression of individuality: some want it dry, some want it sweet, and some definitely want extra cherries.
Wieth's interpretation emphasizes warmth and indulgence through his color choices. The amber tones of the whiskey dominate the composition, echoed and amplified in the orange peel and golden background touches. The red cherries aren't merely garnish—they're compositional anchors, their saturated color singing against the warm neutrals and creating visual rhythm throughout the painting.
The background's energetic, almost abstract treatment serves multiple purposes. It suggests the atmosphere of cocktail enjoyment—the buzz of conversation, the warm lighting of a good bar, the celebratory mood. The broken, gestural brushwork also creates a contemporary edge, ensuring this isn't nostalgic illustration but rather a modern artistic interpretation of cocktail culture.
Wieth's technique involves building layers of color that create depth and luminosity. The glass itself is suggested through careful value relationships and strategic highlights rather than photographic detail. This approach honors the impressionist tradition of capturing light and atmosphere while maintaining a distinctly contemporary sensibility.
The painting celebrates both the craft of cocktail making and the personal rituals around drinking. That "extra cherry" in the title speaks to knowing what you want and not being shy about asking for it—a small rebellion against standard preparations, an assertion of preference and personality.
Design Impact:
The vertical 12x9 format creates an elegant presence perfect for narrow wall spaces, above bar carts, or as part of gallery walls. The warm color palette—dominated by ambers, oranges, and reds—creates an inviting, convivial atmosphere that enhances any space dedicated to entertaining or relaxation.
Personal Expression:
The "extra cherry" detail makes this painting particularly meaningful for those who appreciate customization and personal preferences. It's not just a cocktail painting—it's about knowing what you want and enjoying life's details your way.
Conversation Catalyst:
This painting naturally sparks conversations about favorite drinks, bartender relationships, personal cocktail preferences, and the craft cocktail movement. The specific garnish detail gives everyone something to relate to or debate.
The Old Fashioned: An American Classic
Cocktail Heritage:
The Old Fashioned claims the title of America's first cocktail:
Origins: 1880s, Louisville, Kentucky
Classic ingredients: Whiskey, sugar, bitters, citrus
Garnish tradition: Orange peel and cherry
Glass: Rocks glass (also called Old Fashioned glass)
Contemporary revival: Craft cocktail movement hero
Cultural status: Sophisticated, timeless, masculine
The Cherry Question:
Garnish choices reveal cocktail philosophy:
Traditionalists: One cherry, or none at all
Modernists: Focus on the spirit, minimal garnish
Indulgents: Extra cherry (or even multiple)
The debate: Fresh cherry vs. maraschino
Personal preference: Making it your own
Wieth's "Extra Cherry" celebrates those who know what they like and aren't afraid to ask for it.
Whiskey Culture:
The Old Fashioned connects to broader whiskey appreciation:
Bourbon renaissance in American craft distilling
Whiskey tasting and collecting culture
Bar culture sophistication
Slow sipping and savoring rituals
Regional pride (especially Kentucky and Tennessee)
 
Care & Display Instructions
Caring for Your Oil Painting:
Display away from direct sunlight to preserve vibrant colors
Avoid hanging above heat sources or steam (kitchens require good ventilation)
Keep away from high humidity environments
Dust gently with soft, dry cloth as needed
Never use cleaning solutions or water on painted surface
Consider professional cleaning every 5-10 years
Professional framing with UV-protective glazing recommended for longevity
Display Suggestions:
Above bar cart for perfect thematic pairing
In home bar as conversation piece
Kitchen or dining room for warmth and personality
Man cave or entertainment room
Office space for character and sophistication
Gallery wall with other cocktail paintings
Paired with vintage bar accessories
Display on easel on bar or shelf
Framing Recommendations:
The 12x9 vertical format offers numerous framing options:
Traditional: Dark wood (walnut, espresso) for classic warmth
Contemporary: Black frame for modern sophistication
Warm metals: Bronze or copper frame echoing cocktail colors
Rustic: Distressed wood for bar atmosphere
Elegant: Gold or brass frame for upscale presentation
Mat options: Warm cream or dark brown mat enhances composition
Float mount: Shows canvas edges and painting texture
Lighting Recommendations:
Warm LED picture light enhances amber tones
Side lighting emphasizes texture and brushwork
Track lighting at 30-degree angle creates gallery atmosphere
Avoid cool fluorescent lighting which dulls warm colors
Adjustable lighting allows mood variation