Artist Russell Risko
Biography
Russell Risko (b. 1952, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) is an American contemporary artist best known for his evocative portraits and esoteric landscapes. His artistic journey began with acceptance into the Commercial Art & Illustration Program at Bucks County Technical High School. Russ continued his education by earning an Associate of Fine Arts degree from Bucks County Community College, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University. Early influences include Marlene Miller, Alan Goldstein, Joseph Scorsone, and Stanislav Sikorsky. He also draws inspiration from painters Francoise Nielly, and Peter M. Hicks.
An acclaimed graphic designer and illustrator, Russell has also held leadership roles as an art director, creative director, and agency principal. With a distinguished 40-year career in advertising and design, his work has been featured in numerous regional, national, and digital publications. After retiring from the fast-paced world of mass media advertising and marketing—where tight deadlines once defined his role—Russ is now fully dedicated to his lifelong passion as a fine artist.
Russell’s work explores deeply resonant themes across two major series. His Head Games series, created in response to the global pandemic, features illustrated portraiture that convey tension and torment through facial fragments and linear patterns. Painted in vibrant watercolors using a tetradic color palette, these portraits serve as metaphoric expressions of civil and political unrest. In contrast, the Fields & Streams series reflects a serene connection to the natural landscapes of his Bucks County home. These pieces, characterized by muted watercolor compositions and wax pencil, may also incorporate absorbent ground, modeling paste, and impasto mediums to create distinctive surface textures. This series is driven by Russ’ desire to capture the raw beauty of unspoiled woodlands and wetlands, intentionally omitting human and architectural subjects to highlight nature’s innate vitality.
The artworks of Russell Risko have been showcased in notable exhibitions, gaining recognition for its thought-provoking themes and innovative approach to traditional mediums. A lifetime of artistic evolution and dedication places him among the prominent creative voices of his region.