James Richardson

Artist Statement

I work with a variety of mediums, including mixed media, photography, and digital art, but specialize in acrylic painting. The works I create reflect on my experiences and life as a young, Black man in society, while incorporating my longstanding love of cartoon graphics through my use of bold color, pronounced lines, and specific style. The consideration and use of such practices allow me to convey aspects of my friendships/relationships with those around me (ie, friends and family), in addition to elements of Black culture (including stereotypes, struggles, and modern impacts systems have had on the community, such as “normalized” beauty standards). This is all done through a process of brainstorming, sketching, background application, outlining, and, lastly, painting for each piece. The messages/reflections presented in my artworks, can be easily digested, discussed, and enjoyed by viewers of various demographics, through the cartoon medium.

Biography

J Rich is an emerging African American multimedia artist from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Currently enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Studio Arts in his third year, Rich utilizes his own unique cartoon style to comment on themes of everyday life, the Black community, interpersonal relationships, and personal experiences. These themes are presented in mediums including small and large scale acrylic paintings, digital art, and fabric/clothing paintings.

Gng N' Em Oakland - The Final Season_2024_Acrylic on canvas_48 x 60 inches