Richard won his first art award at age 8. His mother had sent a tiger drawing of his to a newspaper art contest, without him knowing. A week later, she showed him the result including silver dollars as the prize. He later attended college on a track scholarship while focusing on sculpture.  After graduation he worked for an architect, before ending up at a foundry that reproduced copies of old European bronzes. In his spare time he painted pet portraits and wildlife, working to the point where he could paint full time. He has won numerous awards and been featured in many magazines.

Richard has also excelled as a master's track runner, having set several national records and even a world record.

He now resides in Texas with his artist wife Heather. They recently spent 3 years in Ireland after an around the world trip.