Phil Richards is a Canadian painter best known for his detailed and expressive portraits, as well as his surreal and highly imaginative compositions. Born in Toronto, Richards trained at the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD), where he developed a technical mastery of painting that allows him to create works of remarkable precision and depth.

Richards gained widespread recognition when he was commissioned to paint the official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in 2012 to mark her Diamond Jubilee. His ability to capture the essence of his subjects has made him a sought-after portrait artist, with commissions including prominent figures in Canadian government, business, and academia.

Beyond portraiture, Richards’ work explores surreal themes, often featuring dreamlike settings, mythological references, and a striking interplay of color and texture. His paintings can be found in major public and private collections, including the Art Gallery of Ontario and the National Portrait Gallery of Canada. His contribution to Canadian contemporary realism ensures his place as one of the country’s most respected living painters.