Ariana Richards possessed a love of traditional art at an early age. An internationally noted actress, known especially for her role as “Lex” in “Jurassic Park,” she went on to Skidmore College to earn a B.S. Degree in Fine Art and Drama, with distinction. She continued with instruction at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California and has been mentored by some of the finest names in Contemporary Impressionist art.

       Art has long been a tradition in her family. Her own genealogy can be traced back to the early Italian Renaissance with Carlo Crevelli, a contemporary of Botticelli. Ariana’s ongoing work shows the classical influence of the Old Masters, along with the dynamics of Impressionist artists, most notably Monet and Guy Rose. She draws inspiration from historic painters such as John Singer Sargent, Anders Zorn, Émile Friant, and Emil Carlson.

“Like the Impressionists, I enjoy the effects of light, and especially natural light on the figure. If I could, I would take each viewer along to my favorite places along the seacoasts or in the mountains to the secret places of nature.”

In keeping with her desire to share the special places, Ariana has arranged to take her commission clients into the countryside with her wine country portrait offering. Scores of media interviewers asked, “What can she possibly do as a follow up to her film career.” She hasn’t disappointed them. Already she has become one of the most celebrated portrait artists of our time.

            Ariana’s list of exhibitions includes museum and solo shows. She counts among her collectors local and international corporations. Currently residing in Oregon, she is quickly becoming known for her evocative portraits and figure paintings as well as her landscapes and still-lifes.

         An award-winning young artist, her magazine credits include feature articles in Art of the West, Southwest Art, and American Artist magazine where you can see her work on their cover. Ariana’s awards include receiving 1st place in the National Oil Painting Competition sponsored by American Artist magazine, People’s Choice Award at the Wine Country Exhibition at Napa, and Art of the West’s Award of Excellence in the Western Regional Competition sponsored by Oil Painters of America.

Ariana is a member of the Portrait Society of America, the Oil Painters of America and is a Mentor Member of the California Art Club.      

Articles
November/December 2009 "Young Guns" Art of the West

March/April 2006 "Keeping Things Lively by Vicki Stavig in Art of the West

August 29th, 2006 People Celebrate the 90's!: The Stars, the Fads, the Moments You'll Never Forget.

September 2003 Southwest Art magazine. "Young At Art" by Bonnie Gangelhoff