Wescott shares how creativity has always been part of his life. As the artist in his family, he spent his childhood drawing and painting, but his passion took a more entrepreneurial turn during high school when he joined the Whiteside Area Career Center’s CEO program. The experience encouraged him to transform his artistic talents into a business through his epoxy resin creations under the name Riley Original.
After high school, Wescott enlisted in the military, forcing him to temporarily step away from art. Limited luggage space meant leaving behind most of his supplies, but his passion never disappeared. Throughout his service, he remained committed to returning to art once his military career ended.
Now self-employed, Wescott has embraced a new artistic direction focused on canvas paintings and murals while encouraging others to pursue their own ambitions. His personal motto, “Bet on yourself,” reflects the philosophy that has guided his transition from military service to professional artist.
During the conversation, Wescott explains how serving in the military expanded his perspective and significantly influenced his work. Traveling and experiencing different cultures provided inspiration that now shapes the stories behind many of his paintings. Rather than simply creating visually appealing artwork, he aims to capture emotion, history, and personal experiences within each piece.
One painting that holds special meaning is Worn in Green, a portrait of a World War II veteran. Wescott discusses the careful attention he gave to portraying the veteran’s weathered clothing, expressive eyes, and visible life experiences to honor the sacrifices represented in the painting.
The discussion also highlights the artists who have inspired his journey. Wescott credits Arizona-based artist Jonah Ballard, known professionally as The Painted Lady, as one of his biggest influences. After reaching out through social media for advice, Ballard responded with an encouraging message that reinforced Wescott’s confidence in pursuing art full time. The two artists later exchanged prints of their work after meeting in person.
Long also asks Wescott about his favorite painting, leading to a conversation about Worn and Wild, a colorful horse painting inspired by the Year of the Fire Horse. The piece showcases the bold color palette featured throughout his current “Worn Collection,” complete with detailed brushwork and a composition that extends beyond the painted frame for a striking three-dimensional effect.
In addition to selling original artwork and fine art prints, Wescott enjoys creating commissioned pieces that bring clients’ personal memories to life. He recalls recently painting a friend’s grandparents’ farm from an old photograph, describing how rewarding it is to reveal a finished piece and witness the emotional reactions from those who commission his work.
The episode also celebrates a major milestone in Wescott’s career, his first large-scale mural at Cochran’s Pub. Although he now lives in Florida, he hopes the project will be the beginning of many more opportunities throughout the Sauk Valley. The mural has already generated positive attention and opened doors for additional public art projects.
Listeners can also learn where to view Wescott’s artwork, purchase original paintings or fine art prints, request commissions, and follow his creative journey through social media or his website, rwescottartz.squarespace.com.
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