The Artist Rich Wilkie on Optimism as an Antidote to Pessimism and Depression
In this powerful and heartfelt episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton talks with animator-turned-fine-artist Rich Wilkie, whose journey from depression and self-doubt to creative clarity is transformational.
A self-described natural pessimist, Rich shares how he deliberately chose optimism as a daily practice rooted in self-talk, creativity, laughter, and resilience.
“I try to be optimistic about optimism," said Rich Wilkie
From bringing joy to millions through animation at Disney and Netflix to painting powerful portraits in his “Eyes of War, Eyes of Hope” project for Ukrainian refugees, Rich shows us that optimism is the courage to keep creating through struggle.
“Dreams are optimism, right? Even if you don’t believe in them… dream in the darkness, bring them into the light, and fight for them," Rich Wilkie told us.
Whether you're an artist, a leader, or someone navigating life’s ups and downs, this conversation is filled with wisdom, warmth, and practical optimism.
“It’s the striving to get the bad stuff out of your life, get the good stuff in—because being more optimistic, you’ll be healthier, happier, live longer, and be more successful," Rich told Victor.
🎨 Explore Rich’s art and optimism at richwilkie.com and follow him on Instagram and LinkedIn at @RichWilkieArt.
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