Richard Wilson is a Raleigh, NC-based artist whose work offers a profound exploration of Black history and culture.
Raised in a small town near Robersonville, NC, Richard’s close relationship with his family and cousins profoundly shapes the scenes he brings to life on canvas. This intimate bond between his rural upbringing and his artistic vision is at the heart of his creative journey. Inspired early on by his father, who painted signs for local businesses, Richard found his passion for storytelling through art—a passion that continues to define his work today.
Through powerful series like the Shadow Series and Legacy Series, his art reveals compelling stories deeply rooted in historical and cultural identity. Each collection carries a heartfelt connection to history, family, and heritage, making his work not only visually captivating but also rich with meaning and emotional depth.
The art of storytelling.
Richard has been awarded over ____ in the span of ___ years since he became a full-time artist, some which are nationally accredited and artwork featured in places like. the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Richard’s creative process is a blend of careful planning and spontaneous inspiration, making it both immersive and dynamic. By taking thoughtful drives through rural landscapes, he photographs scenes in nature and candid moments that become authentic visual material for his projects, such as the Southern Girl series. His deep understanding of photographic composition enables him to capture compelling images, which serve as the groundwork for his artistic development. Additionally, his art often features his daughters, family members, and close friends, weaving personal narratives into every composition and enriching the storytelling aspect of his pieces.
Specializing primarily in soft chalk pastels, Richard’s pieces convey warmth and intimacy through their tender, textured quality. Yet, he remains adventurous, exploring oil paintings and sketched experiences, always seeking the most expressive medium to convey his vision. By blending meticulous planning with bursts of spontaneous creativity, he transforms photographic images into evocative artworks that celebrate history, culture, and personal identity, inviting viewers to connect deeply with each story he tells.
Featured Moments
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![Portrait of an elderly African American woman with gray curly hair wearing glasses, a red top, a black jacket, pearl necklace, red earrings, and a pin, smiling against a dark background.]()
University of Georgia
Richard was commissioned by the University of Georgia to create portraits of several distinguished African American alumni who have made significant and lasting contributions to the university's history.
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![Two men holding a framed baseball-themed artwork, smiling at the camera, in a cozy living room with a patterned wallpaper, a cushioned chair, and a rug.]()
Hank Aaron
In April 2016, the legendary Hall of Famer Henry “Hank” Aaron welcomed Richard into his home and personally signed his original painting.
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![Barbershop - The Next Cut]()
Barbershop - The Next Cut
Barbershop - The Next Cut features Richard Wilson’s artwork in their movie.
