Rich Griendling’s father, Frank, aspired to be an artist. But Frank, who grew up during the Great Depression, put away his sketches and paintings to help support his parents and nine siblings.
“He always had a certain (artistic) ability,” Rich said. “So I was always aware of that ability and connection to art.”
Frank’s art resonated with Rich, who dreamed of becoming a professional artist since he was 5.
After an erratic career as a young freelance artist, Rich found success carving sculptures of children for hospitals, schools and agencies in the state.
“My father was always astonished when people would pay me money for stuff,” Rich said.
Rich said his work gained popularity because of his attention to detail. He spent hours with his favorite subjects – his two sons.
Rich’s most recent projects have focused on the military, but he continues to use his family to keep him motivated and inspired. In his first military sculpture series, Rich used a life-size bronze statue of his father, a World War II veteran, standing at attention as the centerpiece. The piece is located at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central near Fort Knox.
“It really does make things more interesting when I know the person involved,” Rich said.
