Bridger Barksdale (28) is an award-winning watercolor artist and painter based in Rhode Island. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the natural world, Bridger’s work has garnered numerous accolades, including first place at the prestigious Mountain Maryland Plein Air Competition and second place in the 13th Watermedia Showcase.

Bridger’s artistic journey began in 2016 when he moved to Arizona to study design under his late grandfather, Ralph Barksdale. This mentorship laid the foundation for his artistic development, and within months, he won first place at the Eccles Plein Air Painting Competition in Ogden, UT, marking a significant milestone in his emerging career.

Growing up in his father’s photography studio, Bridger was immersed in an environment filled with lights and reflectors, which nurtured his understanding of composition from an early age. His foundation in visual arts was further enriched by five years of studying classical ballet in Maryland and New York, where he learned the importance of discipline, movement, and expression.

In late 2020, Bridger relocated to L’viv, Ukraine, where he immersed himself in the local art community. This vibrant experience culminated in his first solo exhibition titled Homage to L’viv, a collection of watercolors that paid tribute to the city’s rich culture. Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, he created a second solo exhibition titled City of Lions, designed to raise awareness of the tragedy and funds for Ukrainian refugees, featuring a poignant collection of 14 works on paper.

In early 2023, Bridger spent three transformative weeks in Helper, UT, known for its dynamic art community. His time there proved fruitful, as he won first place at the Mountain Maryland Plein Air Competition, exhibited at the 99th Springville Salon, and was featured in Southwest Art Magazine’s 21 Under 31. Renowned Vermont artist Charlie Hunter praised Bridger’s piece Wet Cement, noting how it “captured a specific moment in time with love, respect, and humor.”

At the beginning of 2024, Bridger fully committed to his artistic career in Helper, presenting his solo exhibition Up Close and Personal at the KT Gallery, a collection of miniature oil paintings painted with a single bristle. Shortly after, he traveled to Pennsylvania to participate in the 16th Annual Plein Air Festival at The Wayne Art Center, where he was honored with the Michael Harding and Ampersand Awards for his painting Chanticleer Tents.

In August of 2024, Bridger directed the Plein Air Helper painting competition, showcasing the talent of local and visiting artists while celebrating the natural beauty of the Helper area. The event drew significant community participation and provided a platform for artists to connect and create in the picturesque surroundings.

Following this successful event, Bridger and his fiancée made the decision to relocate to Rhode Island, where he is currently taking foundational studies at the Rhode Island School of Design on a scholarship. This move marks an exciting new chapter in both their lives, allowing Bridger to immerse himself in a vibrant artistic community while pursuing his passion for art.

Bridger is grateful for your interest in his work and the opportunity to share his unique interpretation of culture and art, inviting you to join him on this exciting journey of creativity and expression.