My uncle, Richard Hellman, is an artist also. Had his childhood been ruined by Nintendo, perhaps he would have taken the same path as I. Instead, he became a master printmaker, and has exhibited and taught for many years.

His new online gallery showcases his work, as well as his bio, and other information.

He also has prints for sale. They’re beautiful, and actually extremely affordable. Go to his site and click Links in the sidebar to find his imagekind storefront.

On his web site, Rick explains, “The creative process for me has always been a dialog between emotions and the intellectual filter that balances our lives. An idea gets modified once the process of “doing” begins. The various forms of printmaking … have allowed for experimentation and balance between planning and spontaneity.”

That bond of powerful feeling — be it dark or vibrant — and a cerebral, organizing impulse, comes through strongly in his images. It’s also a description I can identify with my own work.

Rick’s prints were always in our house when I was a kid, and he always encouraged me artistically. Please visit his online store on the Links page and consider ordering a print for yourself or someone more deserving.