Artist Linda Budge has a large window in her studio that overlooks a rocky hillside filled with piñon pines and cedar trees. “I put out cracked corn and birdseed as payment for the many birds and animals that stop by my window to model for my paintings,” says Budge. “The animals have grown used to my watching them, and I believe they’re just as curious as I am.”
Linda Budge, Hidden Stream, oil on linen, 18 x 24 in.
Hidden Stream reflects the scenery around Budge’s home. “Four-wheel drive is recommended—it’s wild country, and exactly the kind of terrain I love to paint,” she says. When Budge discovered this small stream, she knew it would make an interesting subject. She enhanced the composition by adding old logs, grasses and extra trees for shade to create a more mysterious composition. “That freedom to shape a scene is one of the joys of being an artist,” she says. “I’m continually fascinated by how shapes, values, colors and edges work together to strengthen a painting.”
Linda Budge, Two Ferrets Playing, oil, 16 x 20 in.
Budge’s interest goes beyond depicting wildlife and their habitats; she’s equally drawn to capturing their expressions and interactions. “After visiting a facility breeding endangered black-footed ferrets for reintroduction into the wild, I was completely taken with them. Their playful, curious nature inspired me to paint their antics,” Budge shares.
Linda Budge, Yearling, oil, 11 x 14 in.
“Accurate drawing is essential and requires constant practice," she explains. "To convincingly turn a body, lift a foot or twitch an ear, an artist must truly understand the animal and skillfully convey it with a brush.” —
Want to See More?
linda@lindabudge.com
www.lindabudge.com
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