Richard Grossenbach originated in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, graduating from the University of Wisconsin. After having been injured in World War II, he became interested in drawing as part of his recooperation. This new interest prompted him to return to the University of Wisconsin to undertake formal art training. Following graduation he traveled to Paris, France to study at the Academie Julian.
Two solo exhibitions at the Chapellier Gallery in New York City (1952, 1953) were followed by years of painting portraits, still lifes and landscapes. In 1978 he and his wife claimed Scottsdale, Arizona as their new home base. Consequently, Mr. Grossenbach embraced subject matter reflecting his new Southwestern environs especially as he loved horseback riding.
His abstract expressionist paintings were reviewed favorably in The New Yorker magazine January 29, 1955. Imagine showing your work in an exhibition featuring the work of Edward Hopper, Josef Albers and Hans Hofmann? Aaron Bohrod commended Grossenbach's work from this period as well.