21 Under 31 – 2023 | Bridger Barksdale, 27
UTAH

Bridger Barksdale, 27

Descending Below Zero, watercolor on paper, 23 x 30.

Salt Lake City Terrace, watercolor on paper, 8 x 10

Style: My artistic style can be best described in the context of discovery. I am not specifically pursuing any particular style, but rather, I am fascinated by the vast array of patterns and structures that unfold before me on the 2-D surface.

Creative Spark: My creative spark comes from other artists. I am, at times, compulsively social; and one of the reasons I love the world of art is for the many people I get to work with and learn from.

Art Education: I grew up in a large family of painters, photographers, sculptures, dancers and musicians…Shortly after a five-year career as a classically trained ballet dancer, I spent one year in the Arizona desert to study art and watercolor painting from my late grandfather, Ralph Barksdale. My repertoire included figure drawing, portraiture, perspective and art history. The emphasis was on watercolor impressionism.

Best Art Advice Received: Grandpa pulled me aside one afternoon. Having completed a beautiful landscape, he said, “You have to take risks because if you don’t, you’ll always wonder. And if you do, there’s always another sheet of watercolor paper.”

Favorite Studio Music: I mostly work in silence because I often forget that music is an option. If there is music playing, I want to truly listen to it rather than letting it play in the background of my mind. And when I paint, I prefer to maintain the same level of focus.

Favorite Work by Another Artist: I recently had the honor of visiting David Dornan’s studio in Helper, Utah. Among his works, my favorite would have to be the five or more pieces he worked on during that hour. It was incredibly instructive for me in terms of efficiency.

Artistic Goals: I believe that I am on a journey with no predetermined destination. My goals are to continue learning and growing, striving to realize my full potential.

Other Passions: My various passions have ranged from juggling at age 9, to calligraphy. As a teen, I fell in love with classical ballet. It’s always been art with me. I can’t imagine spending my life in any other way.

Price Range: $100-$7,000

Contact Information: bridgerbarksdale.com

Representation: Relics Framemakers & Gallery, Holladay, UT