Inspired by art from a young age, artist Ricky Trione does not let losing his eyesight keep him from sharing his artwork with others.
Ricky lost his vision in two accidents. He lost sight in his left eye while serving as a Captain in the Army. Seven years later, he lost sight in his right eye when he pulled over to check under the hood of his car, and a passing vehicle slung tire tread that struck him in the eye. Before losing his sight, Ricky did realistic pen and ink art. After he lost his sight, he started painting in color.
Ricky did not create any artwork for many years after his accidents. Several years after losing his eyesight, he was approached by a friend and fellow artist to partner on an art piece for Very Special Arts (VSA), where an artist with a disability is paired up with a professional artist. This opportunity opened the door for Ricky to begin a new art career.
Ricky now uses his sense of touch to create his art. He draws with raised paint so he can feel his way across the surface and draw out the design. From there, Ricky can color or paint his artwork by feeling the areas that are dry. To keep track of the colors, he uses a clock system to reference their locations on his palette.
One of the most distinguished things Ricky does to give back to his community is teaching art in the local schools. By visiting the art classes, he gives students a unique perspective as a blind artist by demonstrating how to draw with texture. Ricky says that by teaching these students, he hopes to offer inspiration by showing “everyone can be creative and work through limitations.” 
Ricky uses assistive technology programs and devices to bring his art to life and for everyday tasks. JAWS and Window-Eyes, screen reader technologies, allow Ricky to use his computer. He also uses talking apps on his phone that help him text, send emails, and receive messages back by reading the responses aloud. Ricky uses a handheld talking color identifier to know what paint color he is using and to help pick out clothing.
Inspired by his uncle, who painted by holding a brush in his mouth due to a spinal cord injury, Ricky strives to carry on joy through the arts. He hopes each person with a disability feels encouraged to participate in the arts actively.
To learn more about Ricky and his work, visit his website.
