Celebrate Pride Month with Paul Richmond’s UNAPOLOGETIC showcase at Solaire Restaurant + Bar this Friday, June 4th from 5:30-7:00pm!

Paul Richmond is an accomplished artist, illustrator, and activist whose vibrant, emotionally resonant works have captivated audiences worldwide. Born in 1980 in Columbus, Ohio, Paul Richmond’s artistic journey began at a very young age thanks to his early studies with the renowned artist and instructor, Linda Regula. He started taking art lessons from her when he was just three years old. Regula, who overcame tremendous challenges in her own life, became a guiding light and a significant inspiration for Richmond. Her mentorship and friendship played a crucial role in shaping his artistic style and philosophy. He went on to study at the Columbus College of Art and Design.

Throughout his career, Richmond has become known for his figurative paintings that explore themes of identity, self-discovery, and the human experience. His distinctive style often features bold colors, dynamic compositions, and a touch of surrealism, creating a unique visual language that speaks to viewers on a deeply personal level. His work is exhibited in galleries and museums and is collected around the globe. He has been commissioned to create paintings for notable figures such as Troye Sivan and Dolly Parton.

In addition to his fine art, Richmond has made significant contributions as an illustrator, having created over four hundred novel cover illustrations. He gained wider attention with his “Cheesecake Boys” series, which humorously and provocatively subverts traditional pin-up art by depicting men in playful, often revealing scenarios traditionally reserved for women in the genre. His work as an illustrator has earned him a dedicated following and numerous accolades.

Richmond is a passionate advocate for social justice, arts education, and LGBTQ+ rights. He co-founded the You Will Rise Project, an initiative that empowers individuals who have experienced bullying to express themselves creatively through art. He collaborates with artist Briden Schueren on an inspiring project called Queertopia, featuring live painting events where Richmond and Schueren create expressive portraits celebrating queer identity and resilience. They also conduct workshops, such as the “Redrawing Masculinity” figure drawing class, which challenge traditional notions of masculinity and promote self-expression. The project has raised funds for Trans Lifeline and other LGBTQ+ causes. Furthermore, he serves as Executive Director of Art Makes Us, a virtual space he created with artist Melissa Forman dedicated to nurturing artistic talent and fostering a supportive community for artists.