"Life Abundant" - John 10:10 Painting

Richard Rice is a self-taught contemporary abstract artist living and working in Houston, Texas. His creative journey began in childhood, where an early fascination with color, texture, and the scent of paint was nurtured through paint-by-number kits his mother would buy him. What started as simple curiosity grew into a lifelong connection with artistic expression. In 2012, Richard set aside his brushes and stepped away from painting. During his annual time of fasting and prayer in January 2017, he felt clearly prompted to return to his art—this time with renewed purpose, deeper passion, and spiritual intentionality. That season lasted until 2019, when he and his wife relocated to Denver, Colorado. Although Richard experienced meaningful milestones, including the fulfillment of a long-held dream of exhibiting his work in two art galleries in San Antonio, his art—and the passion behind it—was once again set aside as life’s demands shifted his focus. It wasn’t until December 2025 that the spark returned with full force. Now back in Texas, Richard is creating new works inspired by spiritual reflection and a revived sense of calling. He believes God has given him a second chance to honor Him through the talent he has been entrusted with. Richard’s techniques—his blending, stacking of color, and the movement throughout his pieces—are not something he can easily explain. “It just happens,” he says. His process is intuitive and organic, guided by faith, emotion, and an inner leading rather than formal structure. For Richard, art is an expression that rises from deep within and is meant to be shared with others. He hopes his work connects with viewers not only visually, but spiritually—drawing them in, speaking to them, inspiring reflection, and stirring new thoughts. He approaches each canvas with no preconceived idea of how the final piece will look. Every painting becomes a journey guided by intuition, ending in a destination revealed along the way. His work is known for its vibrant colors, layered textures, and the depth and life that emerge from each piece.