ABOUT THE ARTIST

 

Jacqueline Ridley is an internationally trained artist whose work is founded upon her strong passion for color, line, and form.

 

Educated in London, Jacqueline earned a BA in Textile Design with an emphasis in Fine Art from Middlesex University. She then obtained an MA in Fashion Textiles from Saint Martins School of Art, graduating with distinction. The prestigious Saint Martins is now part of the University of the Arts in London, Europe’s largest institution for art, design, fashion, communication, and the performing arts.

 

Jacqueline’s excellence in her field was recognized early on with the Liberty Prize for Best Print at the Texprint Exhibition, as well as the Courtelle Designer Fashion Print Award. Her career has been a vibrant journey through the global textile industry across the UK, USA, and Europe. A decade in New York City’s bustling garment district solidified her reputation as a designer, stylist, and colorist, while her role as a visiting lecturer at Winchester School of Art allowed her to share her expertise and passion with emerging artists.

 

Throughout her career, Jacqueline has continuously explored and expressed her love for art through various mediums. Whether restoring historic homes or painting in her studio, she has always sought to bring her artistic vision to life. Her work in interior design allowed her to merge her textile and fashion design skills, creating harmonious color palettes that reflected her deep understanding of aesthetics.

 

In recent years, Jacqueline has turned her focus more fully toward fine art, dedicating herself to the study and practice of drawing and painting. She regularly participates in life drawing sessions with internationally acclaimed artist Martyn Royce, an exploration into figure study that has further refined her voice as a fine artist, characterized by her ability to inject energy and emotion into her work. Jacqueline resonates deeply with Egon Schiele’s philosophy, “Draw and paint from the heart,” a principle that helps guide her creative process.

 

After living in the United States for more than three decades, Jacqueline returned to London, a city that has always been central to her artistic identity. This marks a significant moment in her career as she prepares for her first solo exhibition at The Gallery at The Edge in Wilson, NC. This exhibition represents the culmination of her artistic journey to date: a body of work that reflects her deep experience, creative growth, and enduring passion for art.