Art by Ricardo Vela




Click to view more images from this portfolio Flowers
Flowers have been used in all aspects of our lives, in all cultures all throughout time to symbolize happiness, sorrow and passion. They are the beauty, ingenuity and the glory of the creation. It is my pleasure and honor to follow in the steps of one of the greatest artists of all times Georgia O’Keefe who became one of the most sensible people to present flowers in their glory, their sensuality, but above all, their simplicity.
Click to view more images from this portfolio Koi and Exotic Flowers
It was my intention through these images to capture the serenity of the ancient Asian culture. Their communion with nature and how the tranquility shown in the photographs echoes their spirit of understanding and fusion with Mother Nature.
Click to view more images from this portfolio Calla Lilies and Sunflowers
Calla Lilies and Sunflowers are two of the most humble creations in Mother Nature's garden. They don’t need bright colors, exotic scents or elaborate patterns to make our eyes look at them. In reality they are far from being simple, they are elegant, vibrant and lively. Calla Lilies are one of my favorite flowers since they are the epitome of beauty and elegance. While the beauty of the Sunflowers resides in the very essence of life: The wind caressing their soft petals, those vibrant days full of sun and life.
Click to view more images from this portfolio Abstracts/ Digital Art
In these images you will see some exceptional colors and designs. It was my intention to create and tell a story with each one of them. Some are not what they appear to be nor are they what you might think they are. Some have been artistically enhanced to tell the story, while others have been shot to distort their reality to create “magic” with light, color and design. Enjoy!
Click to view more images from this portfolio Andanzas / The Journey
"Andanzas" is one of the meanings in Spanish for Journey. My "Andanzas" is a compilation of my expeditions as well as the daily journey of others, captured by my camera. Most of the times they reflect a moment we can relate to, some others are unique as the subject itself. Thank you for taking the time to joining me in this journey. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Click to view more images from this portfolio Out of the Shadows
In recent months San Diego like the rest of the country have seen the full force of the Latino community in the awake of movement to criminalize undocumented immigrants, separate families and create an economic chaos. Those who until then had been hidden in the shadow came out and their voices rumbled all the way to Capitol Hill. I had the opportunity of capturing some of those historic moments that united young, old, legal and undocumented as one to fight for their right to a better life. Since then some voices against it have grew stronger, but not enough to silence the awakening of a giant.
Click to view more images from this portfolio People
We humans are strange breed, we hate each other, and we annoy each other; however one hardly can live alone. We are one of the most social species of the animal kingdom. Some times we find solace not in humans but in those who without speaking make us feel needed, secure and protected: Our pets. This portfolio celebrates the best of us and those who make us feel better. Enjoy!
Click to view more images from this portfolio Joy of Life
The Joy of Life is most commonly expressed by a sincere smile or a genuine laughter. It can be represented by the image of a mother and her child or a loving couple, regardless of their preference. The Joy of Life could be found in the innocence of a child, the passion of the musician. It can grab attention or could be found in the distant memory of a place long cherished in our heart. Whatever is your Joy for Life, I hope you share mine while capturing these images of life as it's happening right in front of our eyes.
Click to view more images from this portfolio Sunsets
As the sun falls, objects acquire a different look, sometimes they are wrapped by an aura of romanticism, others, they are covered by a veil of mysticism. The truth is that our reality fades into the images created by our imagination at Sunset.
Click to view more images from this portfolio Paintings
As an artist, I am constantly growing, looking for new challenges and new ways to express my emotions and to tell a story. Here are some samples of my new medium: Acrylic paintings