Rick McDiarmid, SFCA

“Painting and drawing has been a passion since childhood, although not my original choice as a life long profession. For many years I worked in a technical field and painting and fine art played a secondary role. In the early 70’s I found that more and more of my “free” time was directed at studying visual art and traditional as well as more explorative painting techniques. This was done through college programs as well as many artist’s workshops. An interest in art history provided inspiration and at least some understanding of the historical context of painting.  Working with oils, watermedia and various mixed media, I have painted and enjoyed the abstract nature of the world around us, so often hidden in the familiarity of our surroundings and daily experiences.

I am moved by light and rhythm and subject matter is secondary. Sometimes the paintings that follow are semi-abstract, while at other times evolve in a more representational direction. I enjoy both and do not feel the need to reconcile this difference in painting intent.”

Richard’s paintings are developed with a focus on light and rhythm expressed through the abstraction of pattern, movement and the interactive nature of colour. The forming processes used vary as do the mediums and include oils, watermedia and mixed media.   Subject matter is often inspired by the integration of human activity in landscape or daily life. Whether semi- abstract or representational, his paintings invite the viewer in, to discover and explore, to complete the story or continue the inner journey or experience.