about the artist
Richard Pumphrey – Sculptor & Educator
Richard Pumphrey – Sculptor, Educator, and Artist
Richard Pumphrey’s journey as an artist began early, with a fascination for creating “things” and a love for craftsmanship that he nurtured throughout his life. Originally from Bethesda, Maryland, and now a long-time resident of Lynchburg, Virginia, Richard has spent decades honing his skills across various art media, including clay, wood, and metals.
He is not only a celebrated sculptor but also an Art Professor Emeritus at the University of Lynchburg, where he spent almost 40 years teaching and mentoring students.
His work in both art and education embodies his philosophy that “teaching has not only been my job; it’s been my love, my passion.” For Richard, making and teaching art are two sides of the same coin—each inspiring the other.
Artistic Philosophy & Inspiration
Art making is about giving “tangible form to those intangible feelings within,” says Richard. Each sculpture he creates is a deeply personal expression that balances technique with heartfelt inspiration and media. His approach to art is founded in his early fascination with tools and a great variety of materials to his formal education at Lynchburg College and the University of Georgia, where he earned his MFA in Sculpture.
When asked what medium he’s most drawn to, Richard explains, “I can get passionate about most media…clay is responsive to the touch, wood is beautiful in color, and metal can become surprisingly plastic, alive.” His love for each medium comes through in his work, as he adapts his techniques to bring out a material’s expressive range stimulated by the challenges each piece presents.
A Diverse Portfolio & Notable Projects
Richard’s portfolio is as diverse as it is distinguished. He has completed numerous high-profile commissions, including seven portraits of WWII Allied Leaders for the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia. Each project comes with its own unique challenges, which Richard approaches with a blend of technical skill and creative intuition. He recalls an outdoor sculpture project at Lynchburg’s Pearson Cancer Center, where he collaborated with a team of subcontractors, describing the project as “a significant harmony” of contributions that led to a meaningful result.
In addition to these larger works, Richard creates sculptures that honor the memory of loved ones, celebrate historical figures, and enhance public spaces. For him, each piece is part of a continuing journey, as he notes, “I work to make my best work my next one.”
Teaching & Mentorship
Richard’s career as an educator profoundly influenced his artistic journey. He described teaching as a mutual exchange: “When I teach the students, the students feed me with their energies, enthusiasm, and sincerity.” His favorite part of his teaching career was working with freshmen, introducing them to art’s potential and guiding them in discovering their own creative voices. For Richard, helping students find their path in art was as fulfilling as creating his own work.
A Life Outside the Studio
When he’s not sculpting, Richard enjoys spending time with his family and their beloved dogs. He has been an avid cyclist, often getting “pathological” about his love for biking. As a self-professed extrovert, he enjoys hiking and socializing with friends, though he’s quick to admit he avoids activities like cooking and raking!
