Event Painter

Joe Rice

About the Artist

I create for the version of us that still looks at the world with unbridled wonder. Whether I’m standing before a 40-foot brick wall or behind an easel at a crowded gala, my goal is the same: to create something that would leave my 12-year-old self absolutely astounded.

My work dances on the line between bold representation and vibrant abstraction. Having spent decades mastering everything from oil and watercolor to spray paint and digital design, I don’t just use a medium—I translate between them. I often find myself borrowing the fluidity of watercolor for a mural or the bold impact of graphic design for a live oil painting.

The Process: Community & Connection

Based in Jamestown, NY, I am a frequent traveler to the surrounding creative hubs of Buffalo, Erie, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh.

On the Wall: To me, mural painting is a communal act. My favorite part of the process isn't just the final brushstroke; it’s the weeks spent on the ground, meeting neighbors, eating local food, and making new friends. I believe a mural should belong to the people who walk past it every day.
On the Scene: During live events, I act as a visual sponge. I take in the music, the laughter, and the energy of the moment, translating the "vibe" into a physical heirloom before the night is over.
On the Road: When I’m not on a ladder, you’ll likely find me on my motorcycle with a watercolor sketchbook in my bag, capturing the landscapes of Western New York and the Rust Belt.

The Professional: 15 Years of High-Stakes Design

Art is my passion, but professional reliability is my standard. With a 15-year background in graphic and web design, I bring a rare level of project management to the creative process. I am as comfortable collaborating with corporate stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams as I am working solo on a remote site.

Whether you are looking to transform a city block or capture a once-in-a-lifetime event, I bring a veteran’s expertise and a child’s sense of wonder to every canvas.