Artist Russell Risko
Biography
Russell Risko (b. 1952, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) is an American artist best known for his semi-abstract portraits, neo-expressive landscapes and illustrations. His artistic journey began with acceptance into the Commercial Art & Illustration Program at Bucks County Technical High School. Russ continued his education by earning an Associate of Fine Arts degree from Bucks County Community College, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University. Early influences include Marlene Miller, Jack Gevins, Joseph Scorsone, and Stanislav Sikorsky. He also draws inspiration from painters Francoise Nielly, George Condo and Hermann Hesse.
An acclaimed graphic designer and illustrator, Russell has also held leadership roles as an art director, creative director, and agency principal. With a distinguished 40-year career in advertising and design, his work has been featured in numerous regional, national, and digital publications. After retiring from the fast-paced world of mass media advertising and marketing—where tight deadlines once defined his role—Russell is now fully dedicated to his lifelong passion as a fine artist.
Russell’s work explores deeply resonant themes across a series of expressionistic genres. The Head Games series features semi-abstract portraiture that conveys tension through facial fragments and linear patterns. Painted in vibrant watercolors using a tetradic color palette, these portraits serve as metaphoric expressions of geo-political unrest. In contrast, the Fields & Streams series reflects a distinctive connection to the natural landscapes of his Bucks County home. These pieces, characterized by fluid watercolor compositions, are enhanced by innate ink lines and wax pencil mark-making.
The artworks of Russell Risko have been showcased in notable exhibitions, gaining recognition for its thought-provoking themes and innovative approach to traditional mediums. A lifetime of artistic evolution and dedication places him among the prominent creative voices of his region.