Richard Edson Sutton is a Bermuda-based artist and art educator, celebrated for his visceral explorations of race, violence, and identity through painting and curatorship. Inspired by African diasporic artists, Sutton's work delves into the raw emotions of the Baroque period and the urban realism of the Ashcan School, telling stories of the oppressed with a fervent sense of hope. He holds a B.F.A. in Painting and Ceramics from Andrews University in Michigan and an M.S. in Art and Design Education from Pratt Institute in New York City, solidifying his dual role as both a creator and educator.

Sutton’s artistic pursuits began with his public debut at the New York City NYack ARTWALK™ in 2009, followed by his selection as the featured poster artist in 2010. His including 2010 exhibition in Bruces Garden, Inwood, New York, that addressed gentrification’s impacts neighborhood while celebrating community resilience. After establishing himself in Bermuda, he became a prominent figure in the local and international art community, participating in the prestigious Charman Prize arts competition. His notable works, including La Pieta (2017) and Rescued From Manifest Destiny (2019), confront the historical and ongoing traumas of racial injustice.

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His first solo exhibition, Afraid of the Dark, presented at Gallery 117 in 2019, featured 25 paintings that delved into the complexities of Black identity, communal placemaking, and the pervasive struggles of oppression and justice. Sutton’s recent work continues to explore themes of identity and self-discovery, inviting viewers to reflect on their own personal and collective narratives.​

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​As an art educator, Sutton is committed to using art as a transformative tool for social change, emphasizing its role in empowering marginalized communities. His curatorial work includes a 2010 exhibition in Bruces Garden, Inwood, New York, that addressed gentrification’s impacts while celebrating community resilience. Sutton’s ongoing connections with institutions like the Bermuda National Gallery, Masterworks Museum, Black Pony Gallery, and The Bermuda Society of Art highlight his dedication to both art and education.

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Internationally recognized, Sutton’s work is part of esteemed private collections and continues to gain attention for its bold, socially engaged narratives.