In the artist's own words . . .

"There are many reasons why I paint. Painting allows me time to think – almost as a means of meditation. Since early childhood my art has been an escape. Growing up as an only child in Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, with little money, sketching was how I entertained myself. Today, the same holds true. The challenge of working through a piece is gratifying.

Many people ask me about the religious aspects of my work. Much of it is greatly influenced by my upbringing in Mexico, and the heavy iconic religious art that I was surrounded by. Shortly after coming to the U.S. as a teenager, I came to know God. This was a life-changing event for me and has greatly affected my art.

Most of my work contains a large variety of materials. I love to shop at local flea markets for the perfect objects. Some of my pieces contain found objects. I am a carpenter by trade, so naturally my pieces have plenty of wood. I have used anything from mahogany to fiberboard. Having the proper tools allows me to think fluidly. I prefer oils to acrylics, but have used everything. I love to use spray paints, oil pastels, pen and ink, caulks, plaster, and textiles. Nothing is safe.

My technique is unconventional. I don’t always start a painting with the idea of an image. Sometimes I am purely focused on a color, shape, or object. Centering, creating circles, layering colors, layering wood, and soon the picture starts to take shape and I go with it. A journey. Discovery.

Circles are a very important part of my paintings. They help me unite things that I otherwise wouldn’t be able to. Blending and mending as they travel through my work. Layering, just as critical to the work, allows me to make mistakes while the work is already in progress. I love to be in control of the problems and or solutions I create for myself within the work. This is the fun part. Solving the problem. Here is where I feel my expression of worship to God." – Fred Rich


For additional images and information about the artist Fred Rich, check his blog out at: http://youwantto.blogspot.com/