Richard D. York, a citizen of Cherokee Nation, uses his art to celebrate life, heal, initiate dialogue, connect with others, facilitate community, and honor his ancestors. Drawing inspiration from Cherokee traditional values, he promotes stewardship of the earth, plants, and animals while blending traditional methods with his western academic training. Through his work, York raises important questions about aesthetics, beauty, and the definition of art, sparking dialogue and reflection.
Each artwork created by York serves as a provocative invitation for viewers to expand their minds and deepen their relationship with mindfulness and observation. With an experimental approach to art-making, he aims to create mysteries that feel familiar and convey a sense of discovery. By showcasing contrasting interfaces in his work, York sheds light on his native heritage and culture, offering a multidimensional view of contemporary Native identity.
Living on the Cherokee Nation reservation with his family, York received his Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies from Pacific Northwest College of Art in 2014. His work has been featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions, including the prestigious Art of the West exhibitions at the High Desert Museum. As a recipient of the LIFT award grant from the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation, York continues to make waves in the art world. For those looking to bring a touch of cultural richness and thought-provoking imagery into their homes or offices, prints of York's work are available for purchase.