Rick has been painting miniatures and figure model kits since 1985. He has won numerous awards, including several Best Figure awards at IPMS contests, Silver awards at Wonderfest, and the Best Advanced Award at the inaugural Imagination Expo.

In 2002, Rick’s was asked to join the writing staff of the hobby’s premier modeling magazine, Amazing Figure Modeler. He has completed commission work for companies such as Forbidden Zone, Janus, Dragonfire Studios, Cygenus Studios, and Needful Things, as well as providing painted miniatures and figure kits to collectors around the world. His work has also appeared in Spectrum, HobbyWorld and Airbrush Action magazines, as well as doing paint masters for companies such as Diamond Select, ReelArt Studios and The Noble Collection. Rick constantly strives to hone his skills as a painter and modeler; always working to ensure his customer is completely satisfied.

Rick was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. He moved to the Baltimore area in 2003 with his wife and business partner Ruth (shipping guru extraordinaire!) and their beloved Schnauzer Maxie.

Unfortunately, Maxie passed away in March, 2005. In September, 2005, the Cantu’s adopted a Rescue Schnauzer named Aaron.  After discovering Aaron had a love for running, Ruth took up the sport as well.  She has since completed several races and a half marathon.  She has set her sights on completing a full marathon in the near future.