Born and raised in Yonkers, NY this artist of Italian descent has devoted his life to portraying the history he loves. A professional artist for over 28 years, his subject matter has varied little from his primary interest, the American west. After graduating with a degree in commercial art from Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, NY where he learned the basics of composition, color and design, he worked for a publishing co. in Manhattan as an assistant art director. During that time he started developing his artistic style while painting in the evenings. After experimenting with different subjects his love of the American West won out. He states “ When I was young the paintings I most admired were those of Frederic Remington and I still get a chill when I stand in front of one”. Painting Western subjects comes naturally to this artist. His interest and fascination with American Indians with their free roaming way of life and strong family structure has enabled him to produce paintings of unequaled excellence. He started selling his paintings in the early 70's through the Douglas Gallery in Stamford, CT. During that time he developed quite a following which encouraged him to make the big decision to quit his job and to paint full time. That was in 1978 and he has never regretted his decision or the fascinating journey his life became.
He started to travel the west to see it all first hand. Hiking in the back country of California, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Montana, Alaska and Canada in all weather conditions he observed nature at its best. His paintings reflect his hands on knowledge as he always strives for authenticity in his work. Many collectors have commented that his snow feels cold and his water feels wet and they can sense the different textures he paints whether they are hard stone or a soft feather.
The area where he truly excels is in his portrayal of the American Indian. His paintings reflect their quite dignity and strength. To better understand how they lived he has read many books and over the years he has often camped in primitive gear in his own Tipi to wear the clothes, hear the sounds and smell the wood smoke. The insights these experiences give him are of great importance in understanding the subject and trying to portray it accurately.
Richard presently lives in Crestwood, KY, with his wife Lea Ann and their two dogs and continues to do what he was born to do and hopes others find escape and pleasure while viewing his work.