Inspired by one of his autistic students flying a rice paper kite, Richard Retter’s “Early Morning Flight” celebrates freedom, color, and transformation. Influenced by French abstract artist Elaine Clement, whose works seem to lift from the surface into real space, Retter infuses his painting with a similar sense of movement and depth.
Created during his early morning runs, the piece reflects the luminous beauty of Arizona’s sunrises—soft hues awakening into vibrant golds and blues. Retter likens the feeling to “stepping into Oz,” a moment of wonder where the world shifts from black-and-white to living color.