I primarily paint vibrantly colored Sonoran Desert animals, with influences from Oaxacan Alebrijes, Talavera pottery and Aztec folklore..

Artist Statement

Ralph Philabaum, “Rafa”, is a watercolor artist based in Tucson, Arizona, with a diverse background that has shaped his unique artistic vision.

His journey began with a love for drawing that started as a child and continued through his early years, leading him to briefly explore formal art education at Pima College.

Over the years, Ralph’s passion for art took a back seat to his professional life as a Contractor, where he owns and operates Philabaum Professional Painting and P3 Contracting.

His artistic skills also extended to working on significant projects like restoration at the Historic Rialto Theatre, and vintage homes in the Tucson area.

Ralph’s art is known for its vibrant and creative depictions, often featuring whimsical pairings of Southwestern animals and plants influenced by the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert, Oaxacan Alebrijes, Talavera pottery, and Aztec folklore.

His medium of choice includes watercolors, ink, and mixed media. All his works are hand-drawn, inked, and painted, without the use of digital techniques.

His return to the art world has brought a refreshing perspective, combining his technical skills as a painter, a love for imaginative storytelling and a bold appreciation of color in his visual compositions.

Philabaum’s artwork has gained recognition and admiration, leading to exhibitions in venues like Petroglyphs at Mercado San Agustin, The Steinfeld Warehouse Gallery, The Tucson Gallery, Agua Caliente Park, The Phoenix Zoo, Cositas in Tubac, and Plaza Fabiola in Puerto Peñasco, Mx.

His pieces often explore themes inspired by his surroundings in Tucson and influences from Southwestern and Mexican culture.