Ralph grew up in England’s Lake District where his love of drawing was focused through the prisms of Tolkien, and Dungeons and Dragons. He filled sketchbooks with dramatic scenes from the heroic (and invariably short) lives of his characters. His artwork was first released to the public through the pages of his gaming fanzine, Codpiece, which led to his first commercial assignment – drawing an Orc!

Those passions, and the naivety of being at the start of the Dunning Kruger Curve, meant upon graduating University, with a degree in English Literature/Librarianship, he decided instead to pursue a career in illustration. Progression along the curve meant developing his artistic skills, and gaining clients. Illustrating Hogshead Publishing’s edition of Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay led to working with Games Workshop, then in turn US publishers, most notably, Wizards of the Coast, Blizzard and Paizo.

His career has now spanned over three decades, during which time he has created hundreds of drawings and paintings. He favours working traditionally, in oils, acrylics and inks. Notable work includes over 100 cards for Magic the Gathering*, working on every edition of Dungeons and Dragons since 3.5, cover artwork for the Talisman board game, Shadows of Brimstone, Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, and Adventures in Middle Earth. Ralph’s personal projects include his Wildborn series of paintings, which places Dragons into landscapes.

Ralph is very appreciative of, and pleasantly surprised by, the journey art has taken him on. His work has carried itself, and consequently himself, all over the world, whilst being happily grounded by life in Leeds, West Yorkshire. He looks forward to continuing down his artistic path. There is so much more to paint.