12/30/2025
(FLIP YOUR PHONE)
Ralph. You’ve officially reached icon status when you’re known by one name in our community. And Ralph is just that… iconic. I’ve known (of) Ralph since I was about 10 years old. Memories of him etched into my childhood of him dancing at my brother’s jam band concerts. But recently in the last 5-6 years, I’ve gotten to really know Ralph. And to know him is to love him. My kids absolutely adore Ralph, and wave frantically every time they see his painted van around town. And thanks to his kindness within the art community, my kids have had multiple opportunities to add some masterpieces to his van. Honestly, his heart is as big, and beautiful as the art he creates.
I recently had the privilege of spending a couple of hours with him at his home. I had long hoped for a chance to photograph him, for no other reason than, I personally wanted to. I want to give this man his roses while he’s still here with us. He has such love and passion for what he does. During our time together, he shared stories of his family, his work, his past. I got lost in conversation so many times I nearly forgot to shoot.
He has given so much of himself to our community over the years. His fingerprints are quite literally all over our city. Some of his work is instantly recognizable in his iconic style… others I had no idea were his. He pulled out album after album of his past works, some finished, some never started. He shared precious stories with me of his dad, and his recently departed brother. He even started a project while I was there, showing me the techniques he uses to lay down his lines… his steady hand and sharp lines are as perfect as ever. The man is still creating the best work he ever has.
Our time together felt sacred, and I felt privileged to share that space with him. I honestly needed more time, and maybe that’s ok. Like Ralph said, it leaves room for more blessings.
