Rich Fischer is an Arizona-based artist, instructor, and entrepreneur who paints to capture the spirit of the great masters, and who believes art makes life better.

Working in acrylics and beginning his adventures in true oil painting, Rich brings a classical sensibility to a modern practice. His work has earned national recognition, including Paint America Top 100 honors in 2009 and 2010 and a Paint the Parks Top 100 placement in 2010.

Teaching is where Rich truly lights up. A former certified instructor at the Yarnell School, he worked closely with Jerry Yarnell before building his own teaching business, traveling across the Southwest and running his own art studio in Cave Creek, AZ. Over the years, he developed his own principles and techniques to help artists at every level, from first-time painters to seasoned professionals.

His "Paint and Wine" gatherings blended a relaxed, social evening with real technique, and many guests who arrived doubting their talent left as repeat students. His personal lessons have earned praise from students across the country.

Rich's classes run from 1 full day to 2 full days. Some of the "for fun" wine and paint style classes are generally 3 hours. For beginners, he recommends acrylics for their forgiving nature, quick drying time, and easy cleanup, while oils are a rewarding next step for painters with some experience.

Before art took center stage, Rich built a distinguished career in the tile and natural stone industry, from sales and marketing to founder and former owner of a large wholesale distribution center of natural stone. Now retired from that industry, he is focused full-time on his art adventures in Northern Arizona.

Away from the easel, he's happiest at home with his wife, Cheryl, and their two rescue dogs, Ida and Kevin, or restoring vintage cars, a passion he's carried since childhood.