Self Portrait
This February, we are celebrating local legend, Paul Rickert (1945-2023). Born into a creative lineage, his grandfather was an artist, and his father, William Henry Rickert Jr., was a notable illustrator. He was drafted at the age of 19 and assigned to the Vietnam Combat Artists Program, where he served from August to December 1966. His combat art is filled with compassion, reflecting his faith and moral opposition to war.
Combat Artist At Work, 1966 (from National Museum of the U.S. Army)
After the war, Paul attended Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, graduating in 1974. During this time, he honed his craft as a watercolor and oil painter, and developed a keen eye for architecture. As a student, he earned the 1972 Gold Medal of Honor from the Allied Artists of America and the 1972 Edgar Whitney Award from the American Watercolor Society.
Paul split his time between Brooksville, Maine, and Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania, where he would be seen riding his bike, accompanied by his art supplies, or with an easel on Germantown Ave. In either locale, he rendered urban and coastal landscapes with color, reverence, and emotional depth, offering viewers a quiet moment of harmony with the natural world and architecture.
End of Line, 1997 • 56” x 56” • Oil on Linen
Join us for snacks, sips, and fine art as we celebrate Paul’s paintings and his lasting contributions to the local arts community. We will also be offering a 10% discount to anybody who purchases Paul’s work on First Friday.
Event Details
Friday, February 6th, 6 PM to 8 PM
One E Gravers Lane, Chestnut Hill
Free & open to the public
