Richard grew up in Southern California and studied painting, sculpture and photography while pursuing a formal education in architecture. He became licensed to practice architecture in California and soon after, moved to New York City's West Greenwich Village. From there he traveled extensively for his architectural practice throughout most of Western Europe, England, Australia, Venezuela and Brazil. While based in NYC, he continued to paint and frequent the galleries of Manhattan, the West Village, Chelsea and SOHO. He now lives and is painting full time in Florida and has exhibited solo as well as in over 40 juried group exhibits.