The sculptures of Richardo Norte reflect his desire to capture an unspeakable power through representations of the human figure.   The artist explores oppositions by presenting classical forms with a contemporary edge, emphasizing a tactile presence by using both smooth and raw surfaces.   Motivated by an appreciation for Ancient Greek sculpture and mythology, Richardo seeks to translate what was beautiful in Antiquity via the influences of today's world.   He strives to express inner strength, power and determination through a fascination with beautiful forms.  

Born in Frankfurt, Germany, and raised in Northern Virginia, Richardo grew up literally surrounded by art.   His father - who held a degree in art and belonged to a local art guild - used Richardo's childhood room as a studio to create mosaics, paintings and etchings.   Inspired by his father's work and by weekly visits to the Smithsonian Institution, Richardo developed an early passion for both classical and contemporary art.   Richardo attended the University of Texas at El Paso, served as a first lieutenant in the medical services corps, and later relocated to Northern California.   In 1996, when Richardo's father gave his own collection of 1950s etchings to his son, Richardo decided to follow his bliss and focus his life on art.