Wind-swept beaches and mountain forests have inspired Macedon Ranges artist William Ritchie all his life.
He has been fascinated by the natural world since his childhood at Warrnambool, which lead him to become a biological scientist and wildlife artist.
A collection of Ritchie’s art, Living Wild, is on display at The Gallery in Mt Macedon until September 5.
“The inspiration for the collection is, in the most part, the wildlife and scenes typical of the Macedon Ranges area,” he said.
“It will also include a few works from the Warrnambool area where I grew up.
“In all my work, my passion is not just to achieve a realist, accurate depiction of the subject, but to try to showcase the subtle details and characters of my subjects and their environment that are less obvious to most.”
“It is great to help people understand the links between science and art, particularly wildlife art,” he said.
“I enjoy this avenue as it allows me to share my experience, artwork and thoughts with like-minded and interested people … I can help them with their own artwork.”
Richie teaches art classes and takes workshops through Arthouse Direct at Sunbury and through Riddells Creek Neighborhood House, and he has picked up a number of awards over the years.
He was also involved in the Macedon Ranges Art Trail, a project promoting the Ranges’ artistic community, earlier this year.
“The Art Trail is a fantastic initiative that connects local artists with each other and the local community, as well as promoting artists and art events,” Richie said.
Details: thegallerymtmacedon.com.au
