Artist Bio – Richard “Ricky” Sirgany Jr.

Hi I’m Ricky, and I consider my self privileged carrying with me the rich heritage of my Jamaican and Lebanese roots. When I moved to the United States at the age of nine, I quickly discovered a passion for the arts—a passion that became my lifelong source of expression, resilience, and joy.

My artistic journey truly began in high school, when I stumbled into a love for photography. With no formal training but a natural eye for beauty, I earned a scholarship in photography to Miami Dade South University. My camera became my voice. I captured everything from city streets to sweeping landscapes, from striking architecture to honest portraits—always searching for light, texture, and soul.

In 1986, I returned to Jamaica with my wife, Nicola, to build a life together. As co-owner and Director of Production at Jamaica Fiberglass Products Ltd., I poured my creativity into design and innovation. Our company flourished, producing pieces for restaurants, hotels, and government contracts. That chapter taught me the value of detail, quality, and dedication—lessons that continue to shape my art.

Life changed dramatically in 2013 when I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), followed just months later by Chronic Lymphoid Leukemia (CLL). What could have been a devastating moment in my life became a rebirth. Anchored by my faith and my need for healing, I found my way back to art—this time with paint and canvas. The canvas became my sanctuary, a place where I could release the weight of illness and transform struggle into beauty.

My first painting, Moving Forward—a red Ferrari inspired by summers spent in my father’s automotive garage, Auto Volante—symbolizes both my love of cars and my determination to persevere. That piece, which still remains in my private collection, marked the beginning of a new creative journey.

Since then, I’ve created a wide range of work—from vintage cars and rustic Jamaican scenes to vibrant seaside landscapes, portraits, and floral studies. Each painting reflects not only my artistic evolution, but also my resilience, optimism, and deep connection to everyday life. I continue to challenge myself with new subjects, because I believe art should inspire joy and remind us of life’s beauty, even in the face of adversity.

Today, my art hangs on the walls of homes where it brings light and happiness to others. For me, this is the greatest reward: knowing that my work touches hearts, uplifts spirits, and celebrates the strength to keep moving forward—no matter what challenges life brings.