Ricardo Breceda has been called an “accidental artist.” The Mexican-born sculptor who has lived in California for the last 25 years is world renowned for his larger than life art pieces. From stagecoaches to horses and even dinosaurs, Breceda’s work speaks for itself- a story of passion, talent and a unique style.
However, Breceda’s sculpting legacy is not the result of a lifelong well-studied artist. Rather, his work began at the behest of his young daughter, an avid dinosaur lover whom he created a 20 ft. tall Tyrannosaurus Rex for. “I was inspired by other artists,” he said. “At the time, there was work at a smaller level but I wanted something bigger, something better.” Breceda had a full-time job while creating this sentimental gift, but was so creatively challenged and fulfilled by the task that he began to pursue the art form with newfound vigor.
And from there, his passion and drive took over. Since the inception of his then-hobby, Breceda delved headfirst into the world of steel sculpting on a grand scale. His work is familiar to locals in the Temecula/Anza area. His leaping horses were a staple memory for many when they were located across Highway 79 near Vail Lake.
Breceda has since taken on a number of commission pieces as well as continued to create his own works. “I enjoy most being able to please people,” he said. “Especially when I have customer orders and they bring me a photo or a model and I am able to surpass their expectations. It feels good to be able to master a skill that is difficult for people. I have passion, love and desire to do this.”
A self-taught artist, Breceda’s work spans a variety of themes. While much of his work lies in animal sculptures such as horses, dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, there are also notable influences from Western culture, such as stagecoaches, Native American art and cowboys.
“When you can create things and make people happy and make them smile, it makes you feel good,” he says.
As for his biggest challenge in this space, Breceda says that he tends to be a perfectionist.
While Breceda’s work can be found in many places near and far, he also has a unique display close to home. Located on a 20 acre lot on the way to the Coachella Valley is Breceda’s extraordinary sculpture garden. Over 350 unique pieces span the impressive free-standing art gallery located in Borrego Springs. While there are many well-crafted pieces peppering the landscape, a fan favorite is the 350 ft. sea serpent that looks to be swimming across the sand.
“It’s a perfect place to have a little mark to amuse people- kids and adults alike,” said Breceda of the artistic desert oasis. “I was lucky to get to use such a space.”
Breceda’s work has been featured in a number of national and international publications and the sculpture garden boasts an impressive number of visitors. “I have a different expression for creating things,” said Breceda on the topic of why his work is appealing to so many. “My art is created piece by piece, individually. The way they are made is incredibly unique. I make things in a way that they speak to you and they have a soul.”
As far as his favorite piece, Breceda says his favorite is “whichever piece I’m working on at the moment.” He says that when he works on commission pieces, his goal is to make those pieces better than his last. Like many artists, Breceda also holds a special place in his heart for his first works despite their novice level. “My first three years of work are to me the most meaningful. I kept them all and don't sell them,” he said. “They are my “ugly” pieces but they are my favorites. They are emotional to me, to be able to know that I could create them.”
A self-taught sculptor, it is this creativity, meticulous attention to detail and fervent work ethic that have helped Breceda to be one of the top artists in this captivating field.
As for what is next for this visionary sculptor, Breceda says he hopes for traffic to the sculpture garden to grow and to be able to sell some of his ready-made creations. He also hopes to be able to create a gallery building and to expand his current acreage space.
“I hope to put in a park too. Something I can be proud of and the community too,” he said.
"I make things in a way that they speak to you- they have a soul.”