Magazine is just wild for local artist’s watercolors

Mitch Ridder, a Laguna Beach artist, has been recognized for his “slice” watercolors of endangered species.

Watercolor Magazine’s annual competition gave its top 10 finalists Honorable Mentions, with publication of Ridder’s winning series in the magazine.

“The three pieces I submitted, that were chosen by the judges and honored as a set, were Lion, Elephant and Zebra,” Ridder said. “When I decided to paint a wildlife series, classic African animals came to mind. These portraits represent animals that are most well-known and recognized.”

Ridder visits wild animal parks, exotic animal rescue organization sites and zoos to capture images of his subjects that he then uses in his art.

Last year, The Magazine of Watercolor Magic selected Ridder’s Giraffe as an honorable mention in their 2005 Watermedia Showcase Competition.

This magazine will also produce a feature article on his works in October.

In addition, North Light Books has engaged Ridder to develop his own instructional watercolor book.

“It’s an open-ended offer that I plan to take,” he says. “But, I need to start photo-documenting my work, from start to finish, so beginning painters can benefit from the process.”

His “slice style” paintings frame animals in tightly cropped vertical compositions that make his paintings stand apart.

“I’ve never been to Africa, but I love the animals that live there,” Ridder said. “I encourage new artists to paint what they love. Only, then, can your passion become your best work.”

Ridder’s work will be part of the Festival of Arts, July 2 through September 1. Information, (949) 494-1145. cpt.07-ridder-CPhotoInfoB21PMC6K20060407ix9xa9nc(LA)A watercolor of a lion by Mitch Ridder in the artist’s ‘slice’ style.