THE ARTIST

About California Landscape Artist Rick J. Delanty

Original Oil & Acrylic Paintings Inspired by Nature

Artist's Statement

"The luscious quality of paint, the attraction of invention and intuition, and the appreciation of Life are what I hope the viewer experiences through each of my designs."

— Rick J. Delanty

Artist Biography

Rick J. Delanty is an award-winning California coastal and landscape artist who brings his wonder and awe of God's Creation to canvas. The artist employs both oils and acrylics in the creation of his work. His intention is to reveal the splendor of quiet corners of the Earth, offering the viewer the opportunity to experience the wonder and peace of Nature.

His impressionistic style brings not only the scenes of California to life, but also inspires the viewer with his concentration on creating mood and movement in every artwork. The artist conveys his own experiences in nature with bold, vibrant colors, intermingled with a subtlety and sensitivity that speak of peace, hope, and life.

A California native, Rick has painted landscapes and seascapes for more than four decades. Working both outdoors and in his San Clemente studio, he uses expressive brushwork and color to communicate the beauty and atmosphere of the natural world.

His paintings have appeared in museums, galleries, juried exhibitions, and private collections throughout the United States. His career also includes art education, workshops, exhibition curation, and service as an awards judge for painting competitions.

Recent Awards & Recognition

Selected achievements from national and international art competitions

Education & Professional Background

Rick earned his Bachelor of Arts in Studio Painting and Drawing and English Literature from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1974. He received his secondary teaching credential in Art Education in 1975 and completed postgraduate studies in nineteenth-century European painting at California State University, Fullerton, in 2000.

From 1974 to 2006, Rick taught painting and drawing at San Clemente High School, where he also served as department chairman. He subsequently taught adult workshops and classes in plein air painting and drawing.

His professional affiliations include the California Art Club, Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, American Impressionist Society, National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society, and American Society of Marine Artists. He was selected as an Associate Living Master by the Art Renewal Center in 2022. 

Publications & Collections

Rick's artwork and writing have appeared in publications including Plein Air Magazine, Fine Art Connoisseur, Southwest Art Magazine, Modern Impressionist Magazine, and American Art Collector.

In 2021, he published Beauty Unites Us: Inspiration and Paintings by Rick J. Delanty, a hardcover collection of more than 50 paintings and accompanying reflections on his life and artistic work.

His paintings are represented in collections including Casa Romantica Cultural Center, the Irvine Museum collection, the Hilbert Museum of California Art, and the Coutts Museum of Art, as well as private collections.

Recognition from the Art Community

"As you behold his paintings, realize the splendor of nature as interpreted by an exceptional artist."

— Jean Stern, Author, Historian, and Director Emeritus of the Irvine Museum

"Rick J. Delanty is one of the most accomplished plein air painters working in southern California today."

— Amy Behrens, Former Executive Director, Casa Romantica Cultural Center

Explore Rick's Artwork

Discover original paintings inspired by California's coastline, the landscapes of South Orange County, and natural scenery throughout America.

Connect with Rick J. Delanty

Interested in an original painting, a studio visit, or learning more about Rick's artwork?

Get in touch to inquire about available paintings and upcoming opportunities.