Made: Artist of the Week

Lisa Ridgers paints contemporary, atmospheric landscapes on canvas inspired by infinite horizons and spiritual contemplations. She will be exhibiting her work at the Palace Art and Craft Fair.

At what age did you know you wanted to become an artist?

I knew I wanted to be an artist at about 12, I would sell and give away graphite drawings to friends and family, mostly portraits and pet portraits. I really didn't think it was possible to make a full time living as a professional artist though.... Very happy I was wrong! And I don't say that often :)

Is being a an artist your only job?

I have been a full time artist with my partner running the business side of things for the last 8 years or so. While building the business, we had several part time jobs, including being stage crew in Phoenix, Arizona for the large rock and roll concerts. Janet Jackson, U2, Melissa Etheridge, Aerosmith amongst others.

If you could be anything else what would you be?

If I could be anything else I would want to work in the movie industry, but not as an actress (too much direct attention for me)....... I have always loved film and have spent a fair amount of time in Los Angeles, a city that I absolutely love :)

One favourite living artist?

Sarah Stockstill is a contemporary American artist that I love...... We actually work for the same publisher and recently met at her studio while we were in Los Angeles. She has inspired my work from the beginning of my career 13 years ago. Her use of colour, layers and her loose but confident style draw you in to her work and allow your imagination to drift endlessly.

One favourite historical artist?

J M W Turner is without a doubt my favourite historical artist. His work, mid 18th century, inspires me the most - his palette and loose abstraction being the biggest influence on my work. The burnt oranges get me every time :)

I think both of the above artists have influenced my work the most and it is very hard to pick one over the other.

What is the most interesting / fun job you have had?

My current job is the most interesting and fun job I have ever had....... I absolutely love what I do! I thoroughly enjoy the creativity and freedom that it allows - it is my Prozac :) It is also the longest job (that's a hard word to use as it really is a lifestyle for me) that I have ever had. Second to this, stage crew at the America West Arena working the big rock and roll shows as crew was a lot of fun!!! Watching the free concerts at such a large venue was definitely an added bonus.

What is your most prized item of art?

My most prized piece of art is a painting that my daughter did in my first studio when she was 2 1/2 years old..... It is a vibrant expressive abstract that she titled all by herself - "Your Date Is Your Fate" - how brilliant and philosophical is that :)

What item of art do you covet most?

I would love to own a large Sarah Stockstill original....... I am sure that I will one day. We actually have plans to paint together at her studio when I next visit Los Angeles, I am sure she won't notice if I sneak out the back door with one ;)

Last book / film that blew your mind?

The last film to "blow my mind" would have to be "Ted" ... It blew my mind because it was shockingly filthy!! Tongue in cheek :)
My favourite film of all time which blew my mind would have to be "One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest" .... Brilliant!

What are you listening to?

I am currently listening to Pink' s, "Truth About Love" ....... I LOVE Pink!!! She has never been afraid to speak her mind, be herself and take control of her career. She is a talented business woman and artist, I respect that. My current mission is to get a piece of my art on to her wall.... My agent has a couple of connections, so fingers crossed :)

How many hours do you waste on the internet each day?

I don't spend too much time on the Internet unless I am researching something or looking at art.... When I do look at art it can be for several hours at a time. Generally speaking though, an hour a day tops..... I would rather be painting!

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

That's easy, I would live in LA :) I love the beach, the Southern California "vibe", the food .... Well, everything about it really! Also, my agent lives there - and Pink ;) so that helps!

Where and what is your studio?

I have two studios... One is at home, in the largest bedroom. I will always have a home studio of some sort as I like to work in my pyjamas at times and paint at some crazy hours when I am on a creative "bender" or getting ready for a show/exhibition. The other is a larger studio just up the road in Rustington where I have more room to do large scale pieces and meet with clients.