Richard
Richard is passionate about his subject. He spends much of his time finding and admiring all kinds of wonderful trees – all around the UK. Through his drawings and their associated GPS references Richard strives to create stronger emotional bonds between people and individual trees. Richard believes that once we meet and 'connect' with a tree we are more likely to care about its long-term welfare. For up-to-date news on Richard's tree finds, news and work in progress please do visit Richard's Twitter page @RGE_Art
Richard was born in Cardiff but lived most of his early years on the edge of rural Derbyshire. He studied the visual arts for five years and successfully completed his degree in art and design. After moving to London Richard worked as a successful art director, illustrator and graphic designer. In 2011 Richard became a full-time professional artist working from his West London studio.
Richard was previously known for his fine portraiture and fastidious oil paintings of clouds. His portrait of singer/songwriter Emeli Sandé was chosen for exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London, as part of the prestigious National Portrait Awards. But Richard's 'GPS Trees' drawings now take centre stage. Richard now spends much of his time searching the UK for beautiful trees to admire, draw and share with the world.
Richard was previously known for his fine portraiture and fastidious oil paintings of clouds. His portrait of singer/songwriter Emeli Sandé was chosen for exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London, as part of the prestigious National Portrait Awards. But Richard's 'GPS Trees' drawings now take centre stage. Richard now spends much of his time searching the UK for beautiful trees to admire, draw and share with the world.
Richard's keen interest in tree conservation underpins much of his work. Richard will occasionally draw trees that might be threatened with destruction or are in need of our general support. Drawing these trees helps to raise awareness. Selling the drawings of these trees helps to raise necessary funds ... trees helping trees!
Since 2018 Richard's artistic reputation and deep appreciation of trees earned him invitations to work with Woodland Trust to choose the shortlist for England's annual 'Tree of the Year' competition. And Richard's artistic ability has been recognised by The Royal Society of British Artists. Work from his GPS Trees collection has been selected by the RSBA for exhibition at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London.