High Artist Spotlight: Richard Arata

As a professional artist, Richard Arata has been designing graphics for over 30 years. From T-shirts and tattoos to a wide range of products. Richard is skilled at bringing ideas to life for individuals and businesses alike. He enjoys digital art, both personally and professionally, illustration, acrylic on canvas, clay and wood sculpture. The soul is his favorite topic. He tells a story with his creations and pours meaning into everything he does. For the past several years Richard has been creating unique wood sculptures on large and small scales. He is now working mainly with native Redwood. Richard is almost entirely self taught and continues to learn by doing. He often says he is between worlds. That's where he gets his inspiration. His wild imagination finds form through art. Bringing beauty into the world is his purpose, though he says "beauty is not always pretty".
We recently caught up with Richard after High Art 2023 to learn more about his most recent inspirations:
-

Where do you find your creative inspiration?
The Anima Mundi, The Soul of the World

Why do you do what you do?
To bring beauty into the world

What art/artist do you most identify with?
Alex Grey

What themes do you pursue the most?
The underworld, nature, the elements

What role does an artist have in society?
Arts role in society is to capture moments of beauty, horror, and wonder; to crystallize emotions, thoughts, and dreams; and to comment on societal norms, political turmoil, and personal experiences.

What is your artistic outlook on life?
I believe creativity and imagination are a necessary component for a fulfilling life. Through my art, I explore themes of consciousness, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of all things.

What advice would you give to your younger self?
Find healthy balance between discipline and play. Explore the world and your inner self with equal curiosity and enthusiasm.

Do you listen to music while you are creating? If yes, share the song and artist that you listen to while creating art.
You look like Rain by Morphine, So what by Miles Davis, and Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven.

What's the best thing about being an artist?
The best thing about being an artist is it's a life-long journey of learning and exploration. You're always evolving, both in your craft and in your personal growth.

What is your dream project?
My dream project would be creating a book with illustrations and text that delve deep into the mysteries of the soul, exploring themes of consciousness, the nature of reality, and the journey of the spirit.

-
Back to Artist Spotlights