Rick Force GALLERY

Material Preferences: I have tried just about every type of sculpting medium , but I prefer to use polymer clays and Castilene . For larger sized piecers , I like to use Chavant or WED clay . I'm definitely very interested in wax , and want to become more familiar with working with it ,though .
Sculpture's Size: I have done pieces everywhere from 1'' tall to lifesize ( more recently ), but I love to work in the 1/8 - 1/6 scale range .
Influences: As far as classical influences, of course the typical ones, Bernini, Michaelangelo, Donatello , St.Gaudens, Rodin, the list could go on and on.... As far as influences and those who have impressed me within the figurine aspect of sculpture - John Dennet ( A very cool guy and great sculptor who I've certainly bugged a few times back in the day, and whose work was certainly a shot in the arm to do this type of thing; Randy Bowen, who didn't see Randy's work and be impressed by the dynamics and flair he brought to it ( and still does, obviously ) ? Another great sculptor( and nice guy ), Bill Merklein, whose work can be seen in the early kits of Barnabas Collins for Action Kits back in the day, as well as many pieces in the Military side of modeling. I know I'm rambling here, but these guys deserve it, and you have to give "props" , right ? Also, I've always had great respect for the artistry of Tom Kuntz. And the Japanese sculptors Takeya, Oniki, Enku, Taishiro Kiya. whose phenominal work also amazes me! Also more recently, Takahashi Shiraiwa ( his Predator pieces are just great ! ). As for other sculptors whose work I admire, John Wright, Matt Manit, William Pacquet, Mike Hill, to name a few. Again the list goes on and on, so I'll shut up! ...
Companies: Nocturna Productions, Dynamic Forces, XO-FActo , Posthumous Productions, to name a few....
Expectations: Just to always improve with each piece of work ( duh ! ) , to enjoy doing it , and to always look forward to the great work of others , many of those whose work is often an inspiration to my own . Catharsis , you know?.
Advice to new or amateur sculptors: Always try to be honest with your self when it comes to your work . It's nice to have the support of those who are near and dear to you , but at the same time , get constructive criticism from people whose opinions you can rely on , not just those who will google over anything you do . Not to sound harsh , but to be able to honestly judge your own work is one of the things that improve us as artists , so be prepared for the opinions of everyone out there , who is entitled to their own soapbox . And that's the end of my soapbox ! .
Other: Lastly , I feel it is important to have fun in this endeavor . After all , it's what got us into it in the first place , right ? I understand the work is work outlook , but it seems that quite often we can become sort of jaded by the business aspect of things , or the inherent competitive nature of this business , spreading ourselves too thin or whatever . All I know is that I don't want to ever lose that " kid in a candy store feeling ." So on that note , good luck to all those who engage in the art of sculpture , I hope you find it rewarding in more ways than one ! Good luck !.