Meet Cory Ricaurte-Whelan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cory Ricaurte-Whelan.

Hi Cory, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Hello, my name is Cory Ricaurte-Whelan. I am 24 years old and live just south of Nashville. I started creating art for myself, my family, and my friends when I was maybe 12 or 13. My father is a metal sculptor and allowed me to help him work to earn some money during my summers.

I would come early or stay late and make sculptures of things from movies or television that I loved; The golden snitch from Harry Potter is one I remember fondly.

I’ve been creating art full-time for the past few years now and travel the entire US. I attend art shows or festivals almost every weekend. My favorite places to travel to are up north by the Great Lakes or out west.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

COVID and what came with it were a huge obstacle. Luckily, most art festivals are outside.

With limited attendance, being outdoors, and social distancing between artists as well as guests, we (artists) were able to survive, displaying at very few shows, but with people who loved and supported art.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I tend to create more wall-hanging art, but I love making freestanding 3D sculptures. I specialize in stainless steel, meaning these sculptures can stay outside without worrying about rust or discoloration.

I have also created my own tools and techniques, so I can create shapes out of the metal and paint them in ways that other people can’t. This is also what sets me apart from other artists.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?

My family and friends have all supported me in this endeavor.

My friends come see me at some shows in Florida, and I share a workspace with my father. My mother was a teacher and always supported my creative endeavors.

Contact Info:

• Website: artbyricaurte.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/artbyricaurte
• Facebook: Facebook.com/artbyricaurte