06/05/2026
We are happy to announce that we have selected Rick Conn as the judge for our upcoming 4th annual "Into the Wild" open juried exhibition and sale, taking place September 24 - 26 Events! On Front in downtown Wilmington, NC.
Richard "Rick" Conn is an American sculptor, educator, and curator whose work explores the
physical and psychological boundaries of space. Specializing in metal sculpture and kinetic
fabrications, Conn creates structural, often interactive pieces that invite viewers to engage
directly with the artwork, shifting the audience from passive observers to active participants. His
creative philosophy centers on the dialogue between interior and exterior spaces, utilizing rigid
mediums like steel and wood to construct dynamic, thought-provoking environments.
Conn’s foundational exploration of interactive forms culminated in his definitive thesis project,
Device: An Exploration of Interior and Exterior Space as an Aspect of Interactive Sculpture. His
portfolio spans a diverse range of disciplines, including complex metalwork, finely turned wood,
public murals, and kinetic installations.
Beyond his studio practice, Conn is a dedicated advocate for the arts community and a seasoned
academic leader. He previously served as the Department Chair of Visual Arts at Cape Fear
Community College (CFCC) in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he was instrumental in
shaping the fine arts curriculum and fostering emerging talent. As the long-time coordinator and
curator of CFCC’s Wilma W. Daniels Gallery, Conn has spent years championing contemporary
artists and managing year-round exhibitions that bridge the gap between regional talent and
global artistic movements.
Conn holds a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art from the University of South Carolina and a Master
of Fine Arts (MFA) in Sculpture from Western Carolina University. He continues to instruct,
create, and push the boundaries of dimensional design from his studio.
