Artist: Ric Morgan

Title: Cork Cactus

Year: 1995

Medium: cork sculpture

Lancaster Museum of Art Collection, Lancaster, PA

Ric Morgan was born and raised in Williamsport, PA, but for many years made his home and studio in a 200+ year old stone house and barn near Millersville, PA. A professional artist and designer he received his training and BFA from Syracuse University. Morgan was a longtime and active member of the Echo Valley Art Group and the Lancaster County Art Association. He was employed as a product stylist and manager for the Armstrong Cork Company, Lancaster, PA.

Morgan’s range of art work included painting, printmaking, sculpture and ceramics. His choice of media was varied, frequently unconventional and witty, often employing found objects. His subjects ranged from the specific (florals, animals, landscapes) to the abstract (stripes, textures, geometric forms.) Whimsey and playfulness are unifying themes in many of Morgan’s works. When asked why he is such a prolific artist, Morgan answered: “I enjoy the creative process - - making an idea visible.”

Working in a wide variety of media, Morgan uses his chosen material as an intrinsic part of his final statement whether in stone, wood, paint, metal, clay or cork. Frequently Morgan’s work shows a gentle playfulness and wry Lancaster humor. He exhibited extensively in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and throughout the mid-Atlantic States.