We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard Waggoner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richard, what matters most to you?
It is most important to me that I live ethically, honestly and creatively. I believe that life is beyond our understanding, unknowable and random. It is possible that there is meaning and much more that is beyond our comprehension but all our efforts to discover the meaning of life are futile. Thus, I attempt to create art (visual) listen to music that challenges me and laugh. I believe that our best response to the universe is to laugh at, or with it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I drew the first portrait – of my mother – when I was six years old. I somehow knew then that I would be a visual artist. I majored in painting and drawing in high school and college. I even spent time in a little art school in New Orleans on Bourbon St. in my early 20’s. I did serious work at Georgia State University and The Portfolio Center in Atlanta. From there I joined a marketing company as an in-house illustrator where, in addition to hand drawn illustrations I learned the basics of early computer design. I have always, despite not always being the best decision, persisted in doing things my own way; I seem to be unable to conform to most expectations. So it has taken some time for my vision to be valued and accepted. It does seem now that I am finding success as an artist. Meanwhile, I’ve worked in a lot of restaurants. I also seem to have a talent for sales and am enjoying a lot of success in the bicycle business.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am actually pretty much a loner and prefer to spend my time, when not working painting or drawing, on the easel or the computer. When I have friends, relatives, etc. visit I am most likely to take them up to the north Georgia/North Carolina mountains where we’d ride bikes or maybe hike. I do like to take my kids and grandkids to the Atlanta Aquarium.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My daughters, Erin Corrao and Neva Liles.

Website: https://www.waggonerartanddesign.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001586708031

Image Credits
Richard Waggoner

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