About / Biography RiK

Fascinating background history in my family. Being a descendant of J. Adelar Godbout on my dad side of the family, he was the 15th Premier of Quebec, adds a historical and political dimension to my heritage. His notable achievements in winning elections and serving as a Cabinet Minister and later as a Senator in Canada contribute to a legacy of public service.

Moreover, the influence of my Parisian mother, with France's art-engraved DNA, she was born in the town of Corbeil also her family maiden name, located in France 17.6 miles South of Paris, it does add another layer to my cultural and artistic identity. It's evident that inherited a natural inclination towards visual art, and my journey spans over half a century, transitioning seamlessly from the film to the digital era. Using various tools such as computers, design tablets, and multiple software programs highlights my adaptability to evolving technologies.

Dedication to months of artwork creation, is a deep passion and commitment to my craft. It's a journey that encapsulates not just the evolution of artistic tools but also the changing landscapes and possibilities within the art world.

RichaR GobouT { RIKXECOM } medium of choice has been wide and varied, over the years, striving to create meaningful pieces of art that spark joy, imagination and exploration. My artwork is often a reflection of my spiritual journey and the power of the human spirit. I believe art feeds our escape and strive to create artworks that will speak to the hearts of me & my viewers. Each art piece is an expression of my subconscious and spiritual journey.

As a multi-disciplinary contemporary abstract artist based in Florida. From a young age, I was inspired by my mother to explore the world of art and expression. My passion for art led me to open my own studio in 1982, where I was able to express myself through a variety of mediums.

It's fascinating my background in the sign-making industry. Working at Metro Sign Shop with Mannie Kay during my teen years, and later having your own sign shop, Minneci Sign Design, my art skills dedicated to crafting signs was a plus, especially in the days of manual design using charcoal pencils and OneShot commercial oil paint, required a high level of artistic talent and craftsmanship to satisfy the local business owners. It's evident that my passion and artistic abilities were put to good use, and my work likely had a significant impact on creating eye-catching and visually appealing signs for various business tri-county: Palm Beach, Broward, Dade.

In addition to my artistic pursuits, I was also a youth chess champion by the age of 10. Despite being diagnosed with Marfan’s Syndrome in my pre-teens and having many surgeries from age four for Harrington instrumentation and remarkable life changing triple N.D.E. events, this did not stop me from pursuing my passions.

I continue to combine my love of art, bringing my unique talents to the forefront of my work. journey with me as I continue to share my creative expression, RIKXECOM's Digi Assist multi programs and hardware mix, capture the essence of visual art using a combination of Images made with the assistance of computer painting, using a variety of mediums to bring my art to life.

My artworks have been featured in a variety of mediums, from television to magazines and galleries. Curated and/or Juried Artwork seen four times on CBS Network Television New York city, New York Photoville, London England the New Artist 5th Edition boomer gallery UK, Ontario Canada Publication Gallerium & The Book of Arts, Miami Published by Dynacolor post cards, Featured Artist Exhibizone Juried International Exhibition and much more. Published in Europe.

It is about embracing the little things art present, the simple pleasures that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. So, pause, soak in the beauty of these still images. Over half a century and constantly evolving as an artist I crafted creative exploration in two disciplines - Naturalist & Abstract Art my cerebral escapism visual that are truly unique.

My artistic upbringing early experiences with art. Learning and creating art under the guidance of my mother was a special and meaningful connection to the world of creativity. Additionally, my brief studies at Cardinal Villeneuve by Chateau Frontenac Square provided valuable insights and formal training in the world of art.

RIKXECOM Technique:

My technique is engaged in a wide range of creative work using multimedia tools and software to achieve artistic vision. Here's a breakdown of the various elements and stages involved in my creative process:

Film and Digital incorporating traditional techniques, this combination allows for a diverse range of visual elements in creative projects.
Digi-Assist using a computer as a tool to assist in painting and creating digital art software that simulates traditional painting techniques.
Digital LCD Creative Design drawing tablet with an LCD screen offers a more natural and precise way to create digital art. It allows for direct stylus input on the screen, making the creative process more intuitive.
Digital Drawing digital pen essential tool for precise and fine control over the artwork. It mimics the feel of traditional drawing tools.
Digital Board graphics tablet/interactive display that aids in creating artwork.
Corel Suite pro a suite of software for graphics and design, including CorelDRAW and Corel Painter, used for digital illustration and design.
InPixio software suite for editing and enhancement, for refining and editing used in multimedia projects.
DxO software known for image optimization, correction, and enhancement, for refining visual elements.
NCH Suite Software provides a range of multimedia tools, including video and audio editing software. These tools can contribute to multimedia projects involving film and digital media.
OBS Studio is open-source software for live streaming and video recording. It's a popular choice for content creators who want to incorporate live elements into their multimedia work.
Hipaw Mirage software designed for creating animated images from static and dynamic element to my multimedia projects.
ArtRage 7 digital painting software that simulates real-world painting tools and textures, to create digital paintings.
Faber-Castell color pencil, EcoPencil Supersoft, iskn Repager tablet using thick 3.8mm leads and a Vinyl Eraser.
OpenCanvas digital painting software that offers a wide range of brushes for artistic effects.
Drawing tablet XPPEN Artist 22R pro graphics + Slide N Scan film and slide scanner, Pixillion image file converter
Zoner Studio X & OpenCanvas7 software, Mirage 64 bits.
Wacom Intuos pro Expresskeys 8192 precision graphics creative flow with multi-touch gestures.

My utilization of diverse set of tools and software to bring is artistic visions to life. These tools and stages help me achieve the desired results, whether it's creating digital paint, or producing multimedia content that incorporates elements of still frame paused film and digital media.

Marfanite ™ ®

The Rest of the story!

Meaningful Art for Joy and Exploration: My artistic mission is to create meaningful pieces that evoke joy, imagination, and exploration. This purpose is a desire to not only produce visually appealing works but to also elicit emotional and intellectual responses from viewers.
Reflection of Spiritual Journey: My work often serves as a reflection of a personal journey. This adds a personal and introspective dimension to my art, it goes beyond mere aesthetics to convey deeper aspects of my inner self.
Inspiration from Human Spirit: resilience of the human spirit serves as profound sources of inspiration for my work. This thematic choice connects your art to broader, universal elements, creating pieces that resonate with the shared human experience.
Belief in Art as Escape: I believe that art serves as a form of escape, allowing to transcend the ordinary and find solace and inspiration. This viewpoint positions my art as a means of providing a sanctuary.

Personal journey a summary:

Youth Chess Champion and Marfan's Syndrome: Achieving the status of a youth chess champion by the age of 10 is a testament to early intellectual prowess and determination. The subsequent diagnosis of Marfan's Syndrome in my pre-teens presented physical challenges, but it did not deter me from pursuing my passions.
Persistence Through Surgeries: Despite facing the challenges of Marfan's Syndrome and numerous surgeries, my determination persisted. The surgeries and adjustments to metal rods from a young age required a profound level of resilience and strength.
Art as a Source of Surprise and Emotion: my many approaches to art are not just about creation but about surprises and evoking emotion, an intentional and emotional connection with my artistic process, aiming to go beyond aesthetics and engage in a deeper level.
Variety of Mediums in Artistic Expression: My use of a variety of mediums in my artistic pursuits is a dynamic and explorative approach to creativity. This versatility allows, to bring diverse forms of art to different audience.
Medical Journey and Archiving: As a Marfanite it is a significant medical challenge missing fibrillin FBN1 Chromosome 15Q21, including the attachment of Harrington Instrumentation to correct scoliosis. The fact that my medical before & after X-Ray records and one curated artwork (Cypress) are archived in the University of Kansas Medical Center's Harrington Archives adds a historical and personal dimension to my Marfan story.
Connection to Medical History: my connection to the Harrington Archives at the University of Kansas Medical Center, especially in Dr. Paul R. Harrington's medical invention museum links my personal journey to medical history. It exemplifies the power of persistence, the triumph of passion over adversity, and the profound ways in which art and personal history can intersect.

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RIKXECOM's commitment to environmentally friendly practices and sustainable art creation. Here's a summary of the eco-conscious elements involved in the production of my artworks:

Non-Toxic Acrylic Inks: By opting for non-toxic acrylic inks, I prioritize the use of materials that are safer for both the artist and the environment. This choice aligns with sustainability principles and reduces the environmental impact of art creation.

Recyclable Materials for Artwork Frames: The use of recyclable materials in the production of artwork frames is a sustainable choice. This ensures that the materials used in framing can be repurposed or recycled, contributing to a more circular and eco-friendly approach to art creation.

User-Friendly Soft Art Canvas: The choice of user-friendly soft art canvas materials that are comfortable to work with while also being environmentally conscious. Materials that prioritize user-friendliness enhance the artistic process while maintaining sustainability.

Automated Workspace: The use of an automated workspace signifies efficiency in production. This involves automated processes that contribute to reducing waste and energy consumption, aligning with a modern and sustainable approach to art creation.

Energy-Efficient High SEER-Rated Computers: Opting for high SEER-rated computers indicates a commitment to energy efficiency. This reduces the carbon footprint.

Design Tablet, Drawing LCD Pads, and Computer Monitors: The use of design tablets, drawing LCD pads, and computer monitors points toward a digital component in my artistic process. These tools, chosen for efficiency, contribute to a more sustainable and technologically advanced creative workspace.

Collectively, these practices reflect a holistic approach to sustainability, where choices in materials, production processes, and technology are aligned with environmental consciousness. This commitment not only reflects a responsibility towards the planet but also contributes to the promotion of eco-friendly practices.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ TACTILE ART ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MY Tactile contemporary abstract art transcends traditional visual boundaries, offering a multi-sensory experience where sight—or the absence of it—converges with touch. This form of art engages the senses, fostering an immersive and interactive connection between the piece and its audience.

My art is crafted with layers that form intricate peaks and valleys, transforming texture into a secret language for the visually impaired. It speaks directly to the fingertips, evoking emotions and ideas that sight alone cannot convey. The tactile quality of my work, with its contrasting surfaces—smooth and rough, metallic and organic—invites an almost irresistible urge to reach out and physically connect, an experience I specifically encourage for those with visual impairments.

One of my first exemplary pieces, RIKXECOM L’Oeuf Or (Golden Egg), embodies this tactile approach. It features a captivating mix of textures: smooth, golden crevices that invite exploration, juxtaposed against rough, organic elements that create dynamic contrast. The tactile experience of RIKXECOM L’Oeuf Or engages the senses and captures the essence of my art—an expression of joy, imagination, and a profound exploration of the human experience. It is as though I have left a pulse within the work, inviting viewers to trace its contours and feel the life embedded within the art.

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Deriving Creative Inspiration from My Gardening Sanctuaries

My art is deeply rooted in the natural beauty and tranquility of my gardening sanctuaries, which serve as endless sources of inspiration. Having established Certified Wildlife Habitats in two counties—first in Broward and now in Palm Beach—I am able to immerse myself in these vibrant ecosystems, drawing from the harmony and resilience of nature. These sanctuaries provide a refuge not only for wildlife but also for my creativity, as each piece of art reflects the life and serenity cultivated in these spaces.

National Wildlife Federation

NWF ORGANIZATION
ecosystems conservation action

former AHTA Member
HORTICULTURAL THERAPHY ASSOCIATION
CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
~ HEALING GARDENS ~

NATURESCAPE BROWARD
CERTIFIED PROPERTY
" FLORIDA FRIENDLY "

FLORIDA FRIENDLY YARD
FLORIDA YARDS & NEIGHBORHOODS

My dual discipline involves a fascinating blend of two key elements:

Interdisciplinary Explorations: embracing a cross-disciplinary approach, a willingness to draw inspiration and techniques from various fields, creating a more holistic and integrated artistic practice. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Creative Use of Custom Mixed Media Programs: custom mixed media programs highlight a technological and innovative aspect to your artistic process. Involving the development & customization of software tools to suit my specific artistic vision, allowing for a unique and personalized creative process. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New Conceptual Abstract Ultra-Contemporary Arts: My focus is always on a new conceptual abstract ultra-contemporary art a forward-thinking and cutting-edge approach, not just creating art for the sake of tradition but actively engaged in pushing boundaries and exploring the forefront of contemporary artistic expressions. My dynamic and forward-looking artistic practice combines traditional and digital elements, spanning various disciplines to create a unique and innovative body of work. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My art often emerges from the quiet solitude of nighttime, a period when my creative mind feels most vibrant. In the 1980s, a series of three profound out-of-body experiences (NDEs) left an indelible mark on my perception of reality, fundamentally reshaping my understanding of existence as an organic, carbon-based being on Earth. These transformative experiences deepened my appreciation for the present moment, infusing my artwork with a purpose beyond the ordinary. Each piece I create reflects this journey—a testament to my reason for being, ma raison d'être.

Thank you for your visit today.

The Children Hospital Stryker Bed & The Birth of My Artistic Expression

Before I ever walked with a brace as a child, my earliest experiences with movement—or rather, the lack of it—came in the form of lengthy recuperation periods confined to a hospital Stryker frame. After each surgical procedure, I spent weeks immobilized, unable to turn on my side, trapped between the limitations of my body and the constraints of heavy plaster-of-Paris casts.

The Stryker bed needed after every surgery (five total), a specialized rotating frame designed to keep my spine stable, dictated my world. My position was limited to only two states: facing up or facing down. I had no control over how I moved, no ability to adjust my comfort, and no relief from the rigid encasement of my medical restraints. Every rotation was an event, carefully managed by caregivers to prevent complications in my healing spine.

Yet, despite this severe restriction of movement, when I was rotated to face down, a small opening below allowed me a glimpse of freedom: a tray table positioned within my reach. It was through this modest opening this window to creativity that I first discovered art.

Drawing as an Escape

At just five years old, part of my world existed within the frame of that bed. My body was trapped, but my mind was free, and art became my only form of self-expression.

With Prismacolor wooden color pencils and sheets of paper, I began to sketch, doodle, and create.
The aluminum metal tray table became my first canvas base, the only space I could physically interact on.
I would spend hours lost in colors and shapes, transforming the stillness of my body into movement through lines, textures, and imagination.

This process repeated itself five time each new surgical procedure brought another period of convalescence in the Children Hospital Stryker bed, another heavy cast, and another cycle of artistic refuge on my tray table. Over time, I became so accustomed to drawing in this position that it felt as natural to me as walking did to other children.

Art: My Lifelong Companion to this day

While other kids played outside, ran, and explored the world through movement, I explored through art.

Instead of playgrounds, I had the limited space of my Stryker frame.
Instead of sports, I had the freedom of my pencil strokes.
Instead of physical adventures, I created worlds on paper.

This early experience shaped the foundation of my creative journey. Art was never just a pastime—it was a necessity, a survival tool, a way to reclaim control over my own narrative.

Though I would later transition to walking with a brace and eventually without as an adult, the months spent confined to that bed left a lasting mark. The act of creating, despite restrictions, became ingrained in me. Even now, when my body imposes limits, my creativity remains boundless.

The Birth of My Artistic Language

My journey as an artist did not begin with formal training or traditional canvases—it began in confinement, within the rigid frame of a Stryker bed, encased in plaster-of-Paris casts, unable to move freely for weeks at a time. While other children discovered the world through physical exploration, I discovered it through art—not by choice, but by necessity.

From the age of five, every surgical procedure forced me into prolonged recuperation, leaving me trapped in a body that could not express itself the way I wanted. But when I was rotated to face down, a small tray table within my reach became my world.

With color pencils and paper, I learned to create movement where there was none.
My lines were not just drawings—they were my escape.
The limitations of my body pushed my creativity beyond traditional forms, forcing me to reimagine space, form, and composition.

This experience became the foundation of my contemporary abstract style. Unlike structured, representational art, abstraction allowed me to capture motion, tension, and emotion without the constraints of realism just as I had once created movement despite my physical stillness.

Influence

Tactile Expression – Having once relied on the limited reach of my arms to create, I now embrace texture and dimension, allowing viewers to engage with my work through touch as well as sight.
Dynamic Forms & Fluid Motion – My compositions are never static; they pulse with the same need for movement that I once felt in my own body.
Unconventional Mediums & Techniques – Just as I had to adapt my creativity within the constraints of a medical setting, I now push beyond traditional techniques, using experimental materials and processes to build immersive, multi-sensory experiences.

The isolation, the restrictions, the resilience—they all shaped the way I see and interact with the world. My contemporary abstract pieces are more than visual compositions; they are extensions of my lived experience, proof that creativity can defy physical boundaries and turn limitations into boundless expression.

A small part of my story RichaR GobouT