Richard Irwin - I took art classes in high school but didn’t continue because I also learned guitar and spent a couple of decades pursuing a career as a rock star. That led me down a dark path and I didn’t return to art until I started my recovery journey. Art was the only way to convey the pain and loss of my years in addiction. It proved to be healing and very spiritual.
After my life became more manageable, painting was more sporadic, but always in the background. In 2019, I took some courses in atmospheric landscape and abstract art. This developed skills and ignited a desire to take art more seriously. Since then, I have created a large body of work and have been spurred on by the reaction of my social media community.
In July 2021, I moved to New Mexico, built an art studio, and started painting full-time. I credit the creative process as my great healer. Perseverance, redemption, and hope are represented through color, shape, composition, and playfulness. I hope my work might bring a sense of that spirit to others.
I use acrylic paint and ink to create images rich in vibrancy and wonder. We live in a world that is full of anger and division. My artistic world is inspired by the life I wish to create while conveying hope for our future.
