In Rio, life moves to the rhythm of samba and the beat of the ocean waves.

“Every art project I start takes over a year to complete. I want people to enjoy my art and really look at it.”

Richard has a special affinity for Brazil and feels a deep connection to the country’s style, colors, people, music, and flavors. The model for this piece was Paola, a free spirit on the beach in San Diego. The artist envisioned her standing at the edge of the water, with the breeze blowing her pareo.

In order to represent the shoreline, Paola stood on a slanted dolly in a bikini, without the pareo depicted in the sculpture. She held nothing in her hands. Richard took 24 photos during this single session, which were all he had to work with. Sixteen months later, the sculpture was complete. Paola never saw the sculpture. She had returned to her home in Rio before the framework was complete.

In November 2021, Rio was initially on loan to the City of Solana Beach, California, as part of their Temporary Public Art Program rotation. The public response was overwhelmingly positive, prompting Richard to donate the piece to the city. It can be seen at Tide Water Park, the surfers call Table Top, a local beach access at the corner of Pacific Avenue and Solana Vista Drive in Solana Beach.

Rio stands 6’3’’ on a slanted limestone base. Cost 140K limited edition 4