Artist Biography: Richard Beardsley graduated from Alma College in Alma, Michigan with a major in art and minor in art education. After graduation he taught art in the elementary through high school grades in the Detroit area. After 3 years of teaching he moved to the west coast, dividing his time between beach combing, carving sculpture from driftwood and taking classes in metal sculpture. In 1965 Richard moved to Gainesville where he worked as a museum exhibit designer. After taking casting course at Penland Crafts School in NC, he started to freelance full time and to teach at SFCC's adult education program, where he taught for 8 years. He continues to work from his studio in the woods north of Gainesville, where he focuses on jewelry design.
Artist Statement: He is fascinated with the all possibilities of combining metals and stones.