If you marvel at the intricacies and sheer creative beauty of Greek and Roman sculptures, you will be surprised to find its modern-day avatar in Rick Casali. This 33-year-old gifted American creates the sculpture of such exquisite beauty that takes one back to the times when sculptures reined supreme. Not only is this talented artist an expert in creating sculptures, but is a well-established oil painter too.
It all started when this artist, who currently resides in Maryland, fell in love with nature and its beauty. Says he, “It is the honest study of nature that leads one to beauty.” This is so evident in his works as he strives “to capture the essence of what is happening…a certain colour harmony in the landscape or the spirit of a person in the portrait.”
Casali’s style is based on Classicism and Impressionism that infuses elements of contemporary designs. He has been thoroughly grounded in art, having attended the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. He was mentored by famed portrait artists Cedric and Joanette Egeli in the years from 2004 to 2007.
But, the actual person who opened Casali’s eyes to colour and skills in drawing portraits and figures was John Ebersberger. It was John who also introduced him to Egelis.Casali went on to get associated with the sculptor Stephen Perkins, an expert on human construction and anatomy, colourist George T Thurmond and portrait artist Shane Neal.
With such outstanding mentors guiding him, Casali’s sculptures and oil paintings started to get noticed. What is great about this artist is he is not possessive about his artistic gift but is ever ready to impart his knowledge to others. According to him, “All artists have a duty to teach. It’s how artistic knowledge survives and grows from generation to generation.”
True to his word, Casali went on to teach drawing, painting and sculpture at Maryland Hall for Creative Arts, St. John’s College and many other workshops across the US. His contributions have been recognized through numerous recognitions and awards, the latest being Certificate of Excellence awarded by Portrait Society of America International Competition in 2017.
In addition, Casali’s gallery representation includes Haynes Galleries, Nashville, TN; Egeli Gallery, Provincetown, MA; and McBride Gallery, Annapolis, MD.
Currently, Casali is the vice president of the Maryland Society of Portrait Painters. But, he continues to teach at his new North Light Studio in Galesville, MD.
Rick Casali
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