Richard started his professional career with Hallmark Greeting Cards in KC MO. It wasn’t too long before he set out on his own, the beginning of a 35 years as an independent freelance illustrator. The first few “lean” years were spent in Vermont, scratching and clawing for every newspaper, magazine, and small design & advertising agency piece he could get. Once R secured a “Rep” in Boston, he was able to get higher profile work with Boston agents, and magazines like “Yankee Magazine."

After a few years in VT R moved his small family back to Ohio and worked with a group of illustrators in Westerville Ohio “IAM” In his studio years at IAM Richard began working with many prestigious clients; The NFL, The NHL, Honda………. many more. Richard moved to Shannon Associates and began receiving Publishing opportunities. His first Childrens picture book in 1995 was “Animal Lullabies” with HC. Books with Random House, Harcourt, …..led to a book he illustrated in 2006 “BDM” which went to #1 on the NYTimes bestselling list.

After the very successful Marley series, offers for other Childrens book projects have continued to consume most of R time. Most recently he has been working on another successful series, Fiona the Hippo”.

Along with his devotion to Children's book artwork, Richard has enjoyed working with galleries and individuals on commissioned pieces, as well as traveling with his wife Cindy across the country speaking at Schools about his interesting journey.

Latest Release

Fiona, It’s Bedtime, a follow-up to the New York Times bestseller Fiona the Hippo and A Very Fiona Christmas, is the latest book to showcase the adorable internet sensation from the Cincinnati Zoo. Fiona is beloved by fans all over the world, and her newest book is the perfect bedtime read-aloud for cuddling with your little one. Fiona, It’s Bedtime, illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Richard Cowdrey, features everyone’s favorite hippo who wanders through the zoo saying “GOODNIGHT” to all her animals friend before she heads to bed and settles into slumber.

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