Ridgely Francisco

Artist Statement:

I grew up in Buffalo, NY and began drawing at the age of three. I vividly remember drawing on the walls of my bedroom with crayons. So many masterpieces. So few walls! It did not go over well with my parents however.
As I grew up, I realized I would be influenced by an excessive desire to be creative in all aspects of my life.

I started painting in oils as a child, starting at age 12 and throughout my teenage years. I exhibited my works in local art shows and even won a contest here and there. Art became a wonderful escape for me.

Then, I went off to college.

While at Syracuse University I switched my major to advertising design and communications. The Newhouse School of Communications opened a variety of new avenues for me to spread my creative wings. I dove into the art of selling and marketing. It became my career for over 45 years, As an Art Director, I had replaced paints with markers and canvases with storyboard pads.

Now, semi retired, my daughters have encouraged me to pick up the brush again and well... here I am. I love being back.

My style of art is realistic, however I sometimes add a twist to the artwork to give the artwork added drama or a visual signature which is personal.

Education:

Syracuse University, BFA in Advertising and Communications 1974

Artistic Influences:

Examples of artists I am inspired by include works by Andrew Wyeth, his father, NC Wyeth and John Singer Sargent, who will always be a giant in the art world. Lastly, my love of Picasso's work is that he spoke in many ways when it came to creating artwork, which to me is the sign of a true artist.