East Bay Sculptor breaking boundaries at age 97
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (July 30, 2024) — At 97, sculptor Michael Rizza continues to inspire the art world with his unwavering dedication to creativity and his call to “get out of the envelope and do your own creations.”
Born and raised in Manhattan, Rizza’s early life was a testament to the formative power of art and family.
From a young age, Rizza was captivated by art. Tagging along on the New York subways with his older brother, Angelo, he found safety and inspiration in the bustling city. His brother, a talented artist in his own right, introduced him to a world of artistic possibility.
By age 10, Rizza was already training at the Leonardo da Vinci Art Studio and later gained entry, alongside his brother, to the prestigious High School of Music and Art.
A passion for three-dimensional forms
As a young adult, Rizza worked in an architectural business in New York, where his passion for three-dimensional forms began to take shape. His move to Louisville, Ky., in 1960 marked a significant transition in his life. There, he supervised the construction of high-rise buildings, crafting stairs and entrances that would become his architectural signature. It was also in 1960 that Rizza took his first sculpture class, igniting a lifelong passion.
Years later, Rizza honed his skills at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill – creating his first masterpiece “Jana.” It started as a ceramic, then a bronze, 3-foot-high sculpture that became his favorite piece. Over time, he reimagined “Jana” through modern technology, including a 3D print and a massive terrazzo version weighing 170 pounds that was recently bought by collectors in Arizona.
The Rossmoor resident’s artistic journey has been one of constant evolution and adaptation. Despite facing significant challenges, including legal blindness and severe hearing loss, he continues to produce stunning sculptures. Furthermore, he can no longer sculpt on his own and requires assistance from collaborators to carry out his artistic vision.
Once known for working with pieces weighing more than 90 pounds, he now focuses on smaller works, typically 20-30 pounds. With the help of his sons, who assist in transporting his sculptures, Rizza’s creations still find their way into galleries and into the hands of appreciative collectors.
True artistry transcends physical limitations
Rizza’s work is showcased in various Bay Area galleries, including Blackhawk Gallery in Danville, JOR Fine Art Gallery in Clayton and Valley Art Gallery in Walnut Creek. His story is a powerful reminder that true artistry transcends physical limitations and that passion, dedication and the courage to innovate are the hallmarks of a remarkable creative life.
“As you get more involved, you create more, and you’ll get better,” he says.
Rizza’s creative endeavors extend to designing the innovative game U-Sculpt, which invites players to engage with the sculpting process in a playful and educational manner. Art enthusiasts and critics alike have enjoyed his book that delves into his artistic philosophy and showcases a wide range of his work.
He often says that each of his pieces carries a unique message, resonating deeply with those who are sensitive to the language of art. Rizza’s birthstone sculptures on display at JOR Fine Art Gallery encapsulate the essence of each birthstone, creating a personal and evocative experience for viewers.
Over the past five years, prominent venues such as the Italian American Museum and Davis Symphony Hall in San Francisco have featured his work. These exhibitions have not only highlighted his talent but also expanded his audience, allowing more people to experience the profound impact of his art.
At 97, Rizza approaches his work with the same fervor and dedication. “I don’t have much time left, but I want to finish the work I’ve started,” he says, a sentiment that underscores his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Rizza’s legacy is one of artistic brilliance and a deep, enduring love for the art of sculpture.
Email comments to Julia O’Reilly at joreillyfineartgallery@gmail.com.
Julia O'Reilly
Born and raised in the beautiful city of Istanbul, Turkey, Julia pursued her studies in Business and Economics at Istanbul University before immigrating to the United States in 1991. She furthered her education at Las Positas College, specializing in Interior Design, and eventually settled in Clayton, where she has resided for 29 years. In 2003, Julia began her career as a jewelry artist, earning recognition from Diablo Magazine as the Best of the East Bay Local Jewelry Designer in 2012. Since 2014, she has been involved with the Blackhawk Gallery in Danville, California, and became President of the Alamo Danville Artists Society in 2020. In 2022, she opened her own JOR Fine Art Gallery, and for the past two years, she has been actively contributing to the Art Community in Clayton, a passion she deeply cherishes.