Expressionist Ric Conn Started at Age 5,

When He Became Known as “the Kid that Draws”

Meet Ric Conn… displaying his artistic talents at an early age when most were perfecting stick figures. Hailing from Stevensville, Ric is well-known for his artwork portraying women of the western culture. From his website… “As an expressionist, Mr. Conn has been renowned for addressing inequality and other social issues inflicted on women through his paintings.”

How long have you been making art?

Since I was 5 years old. Been most of my life.

When and how was your artistic ability recognized?

Actually when I was 5, I started free hand drawing. Then I was always known as the kid who draws. I started painting when I was 14. My first art teacher in 6th grade gave me a dip pen because she said I could handle it. I ran a tattoo parlor in our recess in 6th grade, drawing tattoos on the students in ours and other classes until I got caught.

What motivates you to create art?

Desire. I really can’t NOT draw or paint.

What art material and techniques do you prefer?

Oil and acrylic, and I am an expressionist artist. I am inspired mostly by the German expressionists.

What subject matter are you most drawn to?

Figurative and abstract. My subjects attach social issues, mostly women’s equality and female empowerment.

How do you develop an idea?

I usually just start drawing or painting and let the idea come itself on its own.

How do you define success with your art?

When I am happy with it.

Describe why you believe art is important to society. 

Art in its many forms gives meaning to life; something to feel. It is an aspect of life that is entirely beneficial… respite from the troubles of life.

Does art help you in other areas of your life?

It helps me in all areas of my life.

What do you enjoy doing when not creating art?

Dogs, cats, my grandchildren.