Winter, New York City, Saks Fifth Avenue, Michael Budden

New Jersey artist Michael Budden (born 1957) is a painter whose past subject matter included wildlife found throughout North America but now focuses on scenes of New York City, the Delaware River and bordering towns, the east coast to the Rocky Mountains. The artist states, “We live in such a beautiful and varied country. We are lucky that we are easily mobile and can get out and experience nature first hand.

His paintings are characterized by strong design, confident brushwork, and a superior quality of light. Mike states,” The challenge of painting on location emphasizes what truly excites me as an artist. It is derived from the heart, very challenging, but fun and freeing up of one’s art spirit. Although I also work in the studio, nature is the best teacher and inspiration.”

Budden has won many awards throughout his career, and a few highlights are the 2006 White House Easter Egg representing New Jersey and meetingwith the First Lady Mrs. Bush at the White House exhibition. Recent success has garnered him two awards at the Salmagundi Club in New York City. The 2008 Purchase Award for the Flatiron and the “2009 Alden Bryan Memorial Award for Traditional Landscape in Oil. His paintings are found in three major Museums that focus on wildlife art, many private and corporate collections.