Most of my paintings begin long before I return to the studio. Time spent in the field observing wildlife, making sketches and recording the atmosphere of a place forms the foundation of the work.
Most of my paintings begin long before I return to the studio. Time spent in the field observing wildlife, making sketches and recording the atmosphere of a place forms the foundation of the work.
Rather than focusing solely on the subject, I aim to capture the wider experience of an encounter. The weather, landscape, light and sense of place are often as important as the animal itself.
Field sketches, photographs and written notes provide a framework from which compositions are developed. Some paintings evolve directly from a single memorable encounter, while others combine observations gathered over many months. Many of my paintings are the culmination of a lifetime spent observing, learning and creating.
Additional section in progress
Field Observation
(photo in the hills)
Sketches & Studies
Wildlife Drawings & Sketches
Building a Composition
Developing the Painting
Finished Artwork
Mammal Paintings for Sale
Bird Paintings for Sale
My Approach to Painting
Oil paintings of wildlife and landscapes in a representational style. Original artworks which are creative and yet based on detailed observation and research.
A painter of both mammals and birds Martin Ridley has spent much time developing a knowledge of the field, which is clearly reflected in his work. Combined with conceptual composition his attention to animal behaviour, habitat detail and lighting creates an amazingly accurate and artistic record of his nature encounters. Particular attention is given to integrating his subjects into their natural habitat. Any featured rocks and branches are likely to be given as much attention as the animal content. He prefers to depict the wildlife in a setting that records the “whole” experience of an encounter and the “whole” may be more about the moody landscape than the focal point of a deer placed carefully to offer scale.
Patterns found within nature hold a particular attraction and are often a key feature within his work. Martin derives much of his satisfaction in the studio by exploring the possibilities of composition. The rendering of weather conditions to create atmospheric situations then enhances this compositional creativity.
Many paintings carry a narrative which take them beyond a more straightforward depiction. Inspirations vary enormously, one painting might be capturing the dramatic action and movement of complex animal behaviours, the next simply portraying an animal in serene surroundings.
Field Observation
Inspirations are principally collected during extensive periods of fieldwork when Martin tends to concentrate his observations on one species at a time enabling him to attain an in-depth understanding of behaviour. This has involved activities such as going out in the snow at 4.30am to watch displaying black grouse from a portable hide and nightly visits to badgers and foxes resulting in their eventual habituation to his presence.
Why I Paint
I feel exceptionally fortunate to have found my vocation early in life and to have spent so many years painting. As a full-time professional artist, I can scarcely believe I have now completed more than 750 original paintings.
It is a career full of challenges, but I would not swap it for anything. I continue to draw creative stimulation from the natural world, and the time I spend outdoors observing wildlife and landscape brings me immense enjoyment.
If there is an added dividend, I hope it is that my paintings encourage others to appreciate, experience and help protect the beautiful natural environments that inspire my work.
Celebrating over 35 years
of painting
Studio / Gallery Visits
Visits are welcome by appointment. Over fifty framed originals and prints on show. An hour’s notice is appreciated where possible.
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Keep in Touch
Receive occasional updates on new paintings, available originals, exhibitions and field notes.
Just a few emails each year.