About the Artist

Thank you for visiting RGraham Artworks. I have been refining my skills as an artist for over 40 years. It was in my early days that I fell in love with the simple, raw nature of a graphite pencil: an ordinary object that can be found practically anywhere which has the ability to create some pretty incredible images! 

Graphite is freeing to me as an artist because of the control I have over the medium. I employ a variety of techniques using everything from my fingertips to erasers of different sizes and shapes, blending sticks, and even the texture and weight of my favorite paper to produce the work I have displayed in my gallery. I love the stark contrast of light and dark, and the various textures and tones I'm able to achieve with this simple tool as the images appear on paper like photographs in a darkroom.

I began drawing at an early age but it was in high school that I was fortunate enough to find myself under the tutelage of a wonderful art teacher (who happened to also be a beloved aunt and neighbor). She pushed me to never stop creating, not to throw anything away, and have confidence to share my gift. Under her guidance, my Honors Arts classmates and I grew as a community of artists, challenging and encouraging each other throughout the years we shared her classroom. In fact, Aunt Laney still lets me bring my artwork for a gentle nudge when I find myself "stuck", or a constructive critique offered in the form of a probing question like, "What is it about this element that you think needs some attention? What do you think is wrong there?"--always the teacher, forever a pupil.

I was recently introduced to the artist, Ezra Tucker. Though he is not known as a graphite artist, I was struck by the unique way he leaves pencil work visible in certain areas of his work.  I  found myself inspired by his techniques and the choices he makes with the backgrounds of his paintings. 

These days, you can find me in my home town of Marion, SC with my four children, my wife Tara, and her plethora of pets. Often, I'm at church, pastored by my lifelong friend and fellow artist, Scott Collins. In my spare time, I enjoy rapid firing obscure pop culture facts to everyone within earshot, watching movies, and listening to 80's hair bands. I also enjoy traveling with my family, hosting a men's  Bible study in my back yard,  and spending time with childhood buddies who are more like brothers than just friends.

I also want to thank my LORD above, my CREATOR, my GOD for whatever gifts I have that allow me to create something others are able to enjoy and take pleasure from. To HIM, the glory...