ARTIST’S STATEMENT

“Art doesn't always have to be shrouded in mystery or require extraction of some deep hidden meaning, rather it can be simply pleasing to the eye and bring a smile to the viewers face. My first goal is to crate sculptures that exude a personal touch, an aspect of life that is increasingly absent in today's high tech world. We need more things which, even if just briefly, take us to a place within our imagination, either forgotten, or previously visited." Goal number two? "Never stop being a kid!"

PROFILE

Following a career in curbside recycling and composting, Rick began to take recycling to a higher level by creating sculptures from discarded materials. The results were not just assemblages of society's trash, but rather the creation of caricatures and objects that draw in the viewer and evoke a smile or outright laughter.
Rusted sheet metal became a phoenix rising for the fire. Old metal shelving emerged as 'Aunt Alice and Poopsie are here for a Surprise Visit!' A well-used trumpet came silently alive being played by the 'Jazz Man'. Positive response to his work from the public was almost immediate in the form of sculpture sales and commissions. 'Aunt Alice' promptly received recognition at the 2000 Del mar Fair Art Show by receiving an Honorable Mention from the Judges, and the Peoples Choice Award from viewers.
In addition to whimsical caricatures, Rick also creates wall hangings, artistic gates, and furniture. While he works almost exclusively with recycled metal, commissions can also be created out of new metal, or objects provided by the purchaser.
Rick's 'Sitting Duck Studio' was named after one of his sculptures, which is now depicted in his logo. Not destined to be a 'Sitting Duck' himself, Rick is busy daily at work in his studio.