Judson Ridgway is an American artist who specializes in classic portraiture. His work also includes equestrian life, animals and figure study, but it is his masterwork pencil renderings of children that are at the heart of his talent and have endeared so many loyal patrons over the past four decades. Learn more about Judson on this page and how simple the process can be to commission him to capture a subject that is near and dear to your heart. Enjoy!
Commissions and Pricing
Judson Ridgway's commissioned portrait process is quite simple. That single perfect moment that you caught in the backyard or on a vacation that you want to share with everyone - "that's" the image Judson wants to recreate in a classic pencil portrait to be cherished for generations. If you have several images from which to choose, he will help you select the one that best captures the subject, resulting in a beautiful composition. For most clients, the hardest part in this process is simply choosing the photo. Once you have done that, then the artist begins his work. Please contact the artist for information and pricing below.
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The entire process typically takes from 2-4 weeks from downpayment (which is the 1st half the commission) to completion; at which time Judson will send you a photo of your completed portrait for final approval before you make the 2nd half of the payment. There is a $20 shipping+handling+insurance fee to have your work shipped in a professional art tube to to any U.S. destination. International shipping is calculated on a per basis case.​
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Your favorite
snapshot ...
captured in a timeless, hand-drawn professional work of art to be enjoyed by generations.
Framing not included in commission price.*
Please contact artist for pricing.
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PHONE
859-913-7231
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*Pricing may vary according to subject matter - such as the inclusion of hands, full body, additional props and additional subjects. Portraits are graphite pencil on heavyweight, cold-pressed paper. The portrait price will be determined and become final before any work is begun, protecting both client and artist.
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The framing details of commissioned work are usually left up to the buyer upon receipt of their art but arrangements can be made for the artist to work with the patron to help choose and setup the framing for an additional fee with the costs of such framing being the responsibility of the buyer. This is treated as a separate and additional agreement from the original artwork commission.
About the Artist
Judson Ridgway
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Judson discovered his talents at an early age. His German grandmother, who grew up and lived most of her life in New York City, tutored him when he was quite young on the finer points of perspective, chiaroscuro and the essence of light while his older brother, also an artist, influenced his knowledge and technique. Judson's work is inspired by rich traditions and classic compositions. His portfolio includes iconic Americana, sporting life, portraits and more. He accepts commissions for original works specifically crafted for each individual patron's vision.
Both of Judson's parents received degrees from Ole Miss - as did both of his grandfathers. Judson graduated from Ole Miss in 1986.
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Photo taken in front of Taylor Grocery just down the road from Ole Miss.
Testimonials
I have admired and respected Judson’s talent and ability for decades. A recent commission progressed smooth as silk and I was delighted with the finished product. My Judson Ridgway portrait is a cherished possession.
LAURIE PASCALE
Fayetteville, Arkansas
I've commissioned Judson to do portraits of each of my 9 grandchildren over the past fifteen years. His gift to capture a particular moment and the subtleties of a child's personality (all from a favorite snapshot) is extraordinary and now a cherished part of our family's homes and daily lives.
LINDA VAN METER
Lexington, Kentucky
This artist captured a most touching scene of my bride and me just moments after our vows in Tuscany, Italy. We had walked down a cobblestone street near the chapel and stopped at a bench to catch our breath. Someone snapped a pic on their camera and that special moment now hangs in our home as an original Judson Ridgway work of art ... priceless.
NEIL SULLIVAN
Chicago, Illinois
For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to have a beautiful rendering of my two boys to hang in my home. However, I had never found a style that I was completely in love with until I discovered Judson's work. His attention to detail - particularly their eyes and sweet expressions - served to perfectly capture their precious faces from a 20 year old photo. The finished work is simply breathtaking and will be cherished for a lifetime.
GINNY ATWOOD
Birmingham, Alabama
Judson's portrait drawings are so much more than pencil sketches - each is a work of art that remind you of a classic rendering crafted by one of the masters. Photographic representations of his art simply cannot replicate the depth and light you experience when viewing his work in person.
MARY-ALICE HALSEY
Southampton, New York
I have been a fan of Judson's work for over 40 years. He is a master of his craft and is driven to create works that focus on character and likeness. He emphasizes depth, detail and light in all of his work. In a nutshell, he endeavors to capture the truest likeness and spirit of a subject - always achieving his mark. Well worth considering for a portrait of this caliber.
LEE MOORE
Oxford, Mississippi
I have commissioned Judson for several very nice portraits over the past 20 years. One in particular was a very special sporting portrait of my daughter and her horse doing an equine event competition in Kentucky. I had taken a photo on my phone of her in midair clearing an obstacle on a cross country event. Judson did a masterful job of not only capturing that moment but the piece truly expresses the perfect rhythm of horse and rider. The way the the light, the movement and the depth all came together still amazes me. I highly recommend his work.
WALT SIMPSON
Little Rock, Arkansas
Inquire
To inquire about commissioning an original portrait or if you have any additional questions, please email, call or simply fill out this simple contact form and the artist will reach back out to you in a timely manner.
Thank you for your interest!
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PHONE
859-913-7231