RICARDO E. MARTINEZ

About the Artist

Ricardo is an illustrator currently living in Denver, CO.  He draws inspiration from archetypal stories in mythology, as well as philosophy, and religion.  Much of his work reflects on internal landscapes of personal experience that seeks to create an honest and emotive connection with the viewer. 

He grew up in Jersey City, NJ where he began drawing at the age of 5, inspired by watching 90’s anime.  In high school he was exposed to the works of the old masters, and French academic painters, where his love of the visual arts grew into a life-long obsession. After graduating, he went on to hone his craft at the Ani Arts Academy under the guidance of his mentors Tim Jahn, Anthony Waichulis, Kevin Moore, and Jason Brady. 

Art and the impulse to create has always been a mystery to him.   He regards drawing and painting as a sacred practice that connects countless generations of artists, dating back over 30,000 years to some of the first cave paintings.  For him the artistic pursuit is one of deep meaning and significance. He views art as an essential vehicle for exploration, self-discovery, and connection.