Richard D. York creates art to celebrate life, promote healing, initiate dialogue, and honor his ancestors. Drawing inspiration from Cherokee traditional values, he aims to connect with others and facilitate community through his work. By incorporating his western academic training with traditional methods of making, Richard raises important questions about aesthetics, beauty, and the definition of art. He believes that art is truly realized when it engages with others, inviting them to bring their personal experiences and spirit to the piece.
Each artwork Richard creates is intended to challenge viewers to move past their normal conceptions and embrace mindfulness. His experimental approach to art focuses on discovery rather than perfection, aiming to create mysteries that feel both familiar and enigmatic. By contrasting different cultural interfaces in his work, Richard sheds light on his native heritage and promotes a deeper understanding of what it means to be a contemporary native person. Through his art, he aims to spark dialogue and encourage viewers to explore beyond their comfort zones.
A citizen of Cherokee Nation, Richard D. York resides on the Cherokee Nation reservation with his wife and three children. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies degree from Pacific Northwest College of Art and has received multiple accolades for his work, including the prestigious LIFT award grant through the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation. His artwork has been featured in solo and group shows in the Portland and Vancouver metro area, as well as in exhibitions at renowned institutions such as the High Desert Museum and the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts. To bring a piece of Richard's thought-provoking and culturally rich artwork into your home or office, consider purchasing prints for your decor.