Blake Lively Gifts Ryan Reynolds a Heartfelt Custom Painting of His Childhood Home

In a touching tribute to her husband Ryan Reynolds’s roots, actress Blake Lively surprised him with a unique, custom painting that beautifully captures a cherished moment from his childhood. Revealed by Reynolds himself in an Instagram post on August 14, 2019, the artwork is now hailed as the “greatest present my wife has ever given me,” resonating deeply with fans and friends alike.

A Nostalgic Snapshot of Ryan’s Early Years

The painting, created by Los Angeles-based artist Danny Galieote, portrays a sentimental scene from Reynolds’s early life in Vancouver—specifically his childhood home, which no longer stands. Central to the composition is a young Ryan delivering newspapers, a nod to his first job with the Vancouver Sun. The image evokes a warm golden-hour glow and idealized nostalgia, hallmark traits of Galieote’s “pop American regionalism” style.

Key details enrich the artwork’s narrative: a young boy (Reynolds) tossing a newspaper toward the house, his loyal dog by his side in some accounts, and a Christmas tree glowing through the bay window, adding a festive charm. Most notably, the front page of the newspaper features John Candy—Ryan’s idol and a personal Easter egg thoughtfully included by the artist.

More Than Just a Painting: A Personal Memento

Reynolds has shared that the house was the backdrop for many childhood memories with his brothers, humorously recalling how they “spent years trying to kill each other on that lawn.” This familial nostalgia adds emotional depth to the gift, making it a powerful keepsake rather than just decorative art.

The painting quickly garnered praise from Reynolds and Lively’s celebrity friends. Lorraine Schwartz expressed her admiration with, “Love everything about this,” while America Ferrera called it “the sweetest” and applauded Blake as “the best gift-giver.” Such reactions underline how the piece resonates not only with the couple but also within their social circle.

Thoughtful Timing and Blake’s Gift Philosophy

The gift arrived ahead of Ryan’s birthday in late October 2019, suggesting a well-planned and meaningful gesture. At the time, Blake and Ryan were also expecting their third child, further marking the period as one filled with personal milestones and family growth.

About the Artist and Artwork’s Value

Danny Galieote, known for capturing American life with a nostalgic twist, has created similar works, including his 2017 piece An Honest Day’s Wages. Prints of his paintings typically start around $195, with original artworks fetching up to $15,000, placing this gift in a meaningful and valuable artistic context.

A Perfect Blend of Personal History and Artistic Flair

Blake Lively’s gift to Ryan Reynolds is more than a beautiful painting—it’s a window into his past, wrapped in warm memories and personal symbolism. The custom artwork perfectly blends artistic flair with intimate storytelling, making it a treasured memento that honors Ryan’s journey from his childhood neighborhood to international stardom.