Richard Bollinger – A Master of the Canvas for Over 30 Years
Richard Bollinger was born in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and grew up in Lansdowne. After attending Temple University and the Hussian School of Art in Philadelphia as an illustration major, his professional career began. Since 1969, Bollinger’s flexibility and creativity have allowed him to work with various mediums and techniques, reaching a broad audience. Early in his career, he illustrated children’s books and created intricate designs for the United States Navy.
His career took off after working for an advertising agency, which led to his first solo exhibition at the Chadds Ford Gallery in the mid-1970s. Instead of continuing in commercial art, Bollinger chose to focus on capturing the world through his travels, a decision that has led to more than 35 solo exhibitions.
Richard Bollinger - Artist of our 2011 Annual Plate, "Running Mates"
Bollinger is primarily a studio painter, but his inspiration comes from the world around him. Most of his work begins as small pencil sketches made in the field, which he later refines into color drawings. He often takes photographs to capture fine details before bringing everything together in his studio, where he carefully recreates the scene on canvas.
The Signature That Tells a Story
Today, Bollinger’s art is available as limited edition lithographs, giclée prints, hand-colored copperplate etchings, and, of course, in the fine metal craftsmanship of a Wendell August piece. Every piece is signed, and beneath his name, you will always find three small initials: TYL. The meaning behind them is best explained in Bollinger’s own words:
“Many years ago, I had big questions: ‘Why am I here?’ ‘What is life about?’ ‘Where am I going?’ Through a series of events and relationships, I found answers I never expected—answers that changed my life. By August 1966, I made a decision to begin a personal relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Because of that decision, my entire life changed. My artwork represents just one of the many wonderful things God has done in my life.”
“I was amazed to discover that many of the great masters wrestled with these same questions. Leonardo da Vinci, on his deathbed, apologized to God for ‘not working as I ought at my craft.’ He had created The Last Supper, The Mona Lisa, and countless masterpieces—yet felt he had not adequately represented God in his work. As an artist, I understand his struggle. I, too, want people to see God’s beauty and His creation through my paintings. No matter how much I depict nature, it is only a tiny glimpse of God’s greatness. That is why every piece of art I complete bears the initials TYL: ‘Thank You, Lord.’ It is my way of expressing gratitude for what He has done in my life.”
A Life of Artistic Achievement
Today, Bollinger’s work is represented in over 125 galleries across the United States. He has been honored multiple times by the Neographic Association with gold and silver awards of excellence. The U.S. Department of State’s “Arts in Embassies Program” has exhibited his work worldwide. He was commissioned to create the official commemorative painting for Valley Forge National Historic Park’s centennial celebration and has been sought after by corporations and charitable organizations alike.
More than 150 of his original works have been reproduced as signed, limited editions. His paintings can be found in private and corporate collections throughout the country.
A Family Man First
When Bollinger isn’t working on his next masterpiece, he spends time with his greatest passion—his family. He and his wife, Pat, live in West Chester, Pennsylvania. They have four grown children and seven wonderful grandchildren.
The next time you hold a Wendell August piece designed by Richard Bollinger, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind it. His work captures not only breathtaking scenery but also a deeper message of faith, beauty, and gratitude.
