F/A-18 Super Hornet
F-18 Art: Navy Super Hornets — Oil Paintings by Russell Recchion
"Crossing The Ramp"
F/A-18E Super Hornet · Limited Edition Print
The split-second an F/A-18E crosses the flight deck edge, capturing the moment before landing on a moving runway at sea.
"Launch 'Em!"
F/A-18F Super Hornet · Limited Edition Print
The Shooter's outstretched arm signals launch, capturing the drama between man and machine at the moment of catapult.
These two paintings are the second and third works in Russ's Naval Aviation Collection, following "Old Salt," his oil painting of the USS Nimitz. Both were created on canvas in 2021 — "Crossing The Ramp" measures 20" x 30" and "Launch 'Em!" measures 20" x 34". Each is available as a limited edition fine art print.
About the Artist
Russell Recchion is a master portrait artist with more than 30 years of professional experience. His work hangs in private collections across the United States and Europe. In 2024, he was selected to paint Governor Eric Holcomb's official portrait for the state of Indiana. He now brings that same mastery to the F-18, in a series of original paintings proudly painted and printed in the USA.
In the Artist's Own Words
"Crossing the Ramp"
"I loved the action of the F-18 Super Hornet approaching the moving flight deck as the shadow becomes clearer and more in focus the closer it gets to touching down. I especially like the single yellow centerline stripe on the flight deck contrasting against the predominantly cool blues of the sea and greys that frame the landing jet. The combination of all these details gives the painting more interest and holds the viewer's attention."
"Launch 'Em!"
"I love the drama created between man and machine. It represents the exact moment a navy F-18 is catapulted off the flight deck, with 'The Shooter' in the yellow vest signaling the launch. The steam rising from the catapult track and the aviators slightly out of focus give a sense of movement. The bright yellow of his vest acts as a focal point, contrasting against the predominantly darker cool colors."
The combination of Russ's dedication to detail and his bold use of colors brings to life on canvas the naval spirit of our fighting men and women that cannot be expressed through words.