About Richard Stravitz
Richard Stravitz graduated from Adelphi University in 1958. A native of Manhasset, Long Island, he served in the United States Marine Corps and later became Chairman of Boar's Head Provisions in Brooklyn, New York. Throughout his career, he nurtured a growing passion for art, spending his free time painting in oils and sculpting in wood.
In 1983, Richard relocated to Richmond, Virginia. By 1990, he took early retirement to pursue his lifelong love of sculpture full time. Today, he devotes himself to the creation of bronze sculptures, using techniques inspired by the sculptors of ancient Rome.
Stravitz works primarily in the lost wax method, an age-old process that combines craftsmanship, chemistry, and fire. Each sculpture begins with wire and clay, then transitions through multiple stages before molten bronze is poured into a ceramic mold. The wax is melted away (hence the name "lost wax"), leaving behind a detailed bronze form, ready to be refined and revealed.
Every piece Richard creates is known for its remarkable realism, precise capturing of muscle, movement, and presence. His work is widely celebrated for its ability to convey motion and deep emotion, giving each subject a palpable sense of soul and story.
Richard Stravitz working in his studio
Richard Stravitz with his sculpture.
Featured Sculptures in Prestigious Institutions and Public Spaces
- The Supreme Court Building of Virginia
- John Marshall Law School in Chicago
- Virginia Historical Society in Richmond
- College of William & Mary in Williamsburg
- Old Dominion University in Norfolk
- The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis
- Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg
- The John Marshall House in Richmond
In 2010, he was commissioned to create a life-size bronze sculpture for the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, honoring Josh Thompson and the fight against ALS. A smaller version of this piece, titled Anticipation, is available at the Richard Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery, with a portion of proceeds supporting ALS research.
Recognition and Awards include:
- Selected as Artist of the Month for the National Art Museum of Sport, December, 2015.
- National Art Museum of Sport 2014 Commitment to Excellence in Art and Sport. A Fine Art Competition and Exhibit, Best in Show for "V-Seat" sculpture.
- National Art Museum of Sport 2012 Commitment to Excellence in Art and Sport: A Fine Art Competition and Exhibit, Silver Medal for sculpture.
- National Art Museum of Sport 2011 Commitment to Excellence in Art and Sport: A Fine Art Competition and Exhibit, Silver Medal for sculpture.
- International Olympic Committee 2004 and 2008 Summer Games Sports Artist Contest, runner up for sculpture
- The Virginia Beach Boardwalk Art Show "Best Sculpture" 1993
- By Special Invitation, an exhibition at the prestigious National Sculpture Society, NY, NY
Studies:
Working primarily in bronze, Richard has studied at the following schools/studios
- Virginia Commonwealth University under Joseph Seiple
- University of Richmond under Mark Rhodes
- The Martine Vaugel of Vaugel Sculpture Studio, Loire, France
- The Loveland Academy of Fine Arts, Colorado with Bruno Luccesi, Blair Boswell, and Peter Bruno
- Richard MacDonald Sculpture Studio in Carmel, CA