Signed lower right and framed H. 45.75" x W. 35".

Charles Schridde, grew up of humble means in Depression-era Michigan. As a child, he marveled at the excitement of small-town rodeos, an experience that would later serve as inspiration for his vibrant, kinetic painting of cowboys and professional rodeo riders. Winning scholarships for his artistic skill, Schridde studied at a number of formidable art schools and universities in his early career, among them was the Chicago Art Institute and the Chicago Academy of Art.

As a celebrated commercial illustrator, Schridde’s work appeared in many of the major publications of his time, including LIFE magazine and The Saturday Evening Post. He is most notable for his illustrations for Motorola’s television campaign in the 60’s and he also Illustrated automobiles for the big three for their advertising and catalogues. In the mid 60’s when photography became the new medium for advertising, he became one of the first and top automotive photographers in Detroit, producing ads and catalogues again for Ford, GM and Chrysler. Later in his career he had the chance to work with iconic figures such as actor Robert Redford, astronaut Chuck Yeager and auto entrepreneur John DeLorean, just to name a few.

After a successful career in photography, Charles sold his business in Michigan and moved to Laguna Beach, California, to concentrate on his career as a professional artist. He was inspired by the French impressionists and the works of western artists Frederick Remington and Charles M. Russell. While living in Laguna Beach, Charles focused on creating impressionistic images of local landscapes and architecture and interpreting the American West, old and new. He later moved to San Juan Capistrano and then Palm Springs using the landscapes as backdrops for many of his western paintings. A collection of some of his western works was published in 2000 under the title Charles Schridde: Western Impressionism. Southwest Art Magazine wrote, “Schridde has become equally skilled at painting landscapes and figures, achieving dramatic effects of light, color, and movement.” He was a regular on the rodeo circuit, where he found much of his subject matter which he documented with photographs that were equally as beautiful. His process would take many hours going through those images, and picking those that captured the light, passion and spirit of the rodeo riders. This process he used throughout his career as he traveled the world documenting nature, light, people, landscapes and the beauty of it all, including Africa, where he painted the indigenous people, animals and landscapes. When his health became an issue, he moved back to California and lastly Scottsdale, Arizona where he passed away on May 11, 2011. Charles was a member of the Scottsdale Artists League, a juried member of the Arizona Art Alliance, and in 2010 was inducted into the prestigious group, “Western Artists of America.”

Provenance:
The artist. By descent through the family of the artist.

Dimensions:
H 40" W 30" Frame Size: H 45.75" W 35" Please note all lots show signs of wear commensurate with age and use, and the lack of a statement regarding condition does not imply the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from defects or the effects of aging. Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of DuMouchelles' specialists. Should you have any specific questions regarding the condition of this lot, please use the “Request Condition Report” or “Ask a Question” buttons or email conditions@dumoart.com.