Another artist of traditional media that captures the rustic impressions of Northwest Oklahoma is a multi-generational son of Woodward County, 46 year-old Rick Wyckoff.

Many artists say that they started their artwork at a young age, but not many will admit to the world being their unconventional canvas. Wyckoff claims that he drew wherever he could, books and walls being the closest to mind, causing his mom to holler at him. That didn’t damper his spirit however and he flourished in high school art classes that spring boarded him into highly technical architecture drawing so that he could use his skills to build a lucrative career. Personal artwork, however, still holds a special place for him and he finds time to do it where he can.

It is not only the traditional painting and drawing that holds his attention, but anything creative seems to give him satisfaction. From LEGO models to crafts like knitting and crochet help him meditate in times of stress. Wyckoff also feels that those happy feelings roll in when people connect with his work as much as he does and even share how they meld it within their life by sharing where and how they display the artwork.

Just like his eclectic passions, his favorite mediums cannot be nailed down to a single one. Currently he has learned to love watercolor for its free-flowing nature and seeing that it is sometimes okay to let something happen and to make the best out of what it became. He says there is ‘some beauty can come from letting the pigment do what it’s going to do’.

As was displayed in the calendar, his current explorations include charcoal and portraiture. He feels down to Earth using the charcoal and getting such simple smudges to come together to resemble familiar faces.

The influences of his life are those that taught him and inspired him to reach greater heights such as his junior and high school art teacher, Mrs. England who has encouraged him during school and beyond. He also credits Professor Williams from Oklahoma State University who inspires his watercolor to be a great as Professor Williams’.

Supporting Wyckoff is just as simple as a click of a button in some cases. He showcases his work and processes on Facebook and Instagram from the handle @rickys.artwork. You can also purchase his works for yourself at Larry K. Hill’s Studio on Main street in Woodward.

To purchase a calendar with Wyckoff’s artwork included, visit us at Woodward News or contact your local United Fund member or Onstage Woodward Member. All Proceeds go to United Fund or Onstage Woodward.