Mitch Baird was born in 1972 and grew up in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle, Washington. At an early age he displayed talent in drawing and painting and with the encouragement of his parents developed a love for art. His true passion for painting matured while pursuing his BFA at Brigham Young University. It was here that he studied under the great draftsman Ralph Barksdale, whose inspiration and wisdom quickened his abilities, knowledge and desire. “It was Ralph Barksdale’s patient direction and willingness to share the mysteries and insights into design, drawing and painting that opened my eyes and mind. I will forever be indebted to him.”

As a representational painter Mitch believes that painting is a celebration of life and the beauty that surrounds us. He is devoted to the traditions of the late 19th century artists who looked to the figure and nature’s landscape for inspiration regarding light, color, and design. Seeking out this inspiration, Mitch works directly from life to capture the qualities and nuances of natural light and color harmony. He has a strong conviction that great artistic communication depends on good draftsmanship, design and vision. His artistic desire is to “portray a positive visual statement and hope the viewer will experience what I see and in some sense be inspired, uplifted, or moved by my painting, whether it is of a small intimate setting or a grandiose subject.”

Mitch still resides in the ‘Great Pacific Northwest’ near Portland, Oregon with his wife Emily and daughter Siena. At his young age he has established himself as a gifted painter and is leaving his mark on the art world. His national recognition continues to grow and was recently awarded Best of Show & the Southwest Art Magazine's Award of Excellence in the American Impressionist Society Exhibition, the Founder's Award in the international 'Blossom - The Art of Flowers' traveling museum exhibition as well as two paintings in the National Parks 'Paint the Parks - Top 100' traveling exhibit.

 

• BFA - Brigham Young University, Illustration
  
  
• Additional study with artists;
  
  Carolyn Anderson
  Ralph Barksdale
  Scott Burdick
  Scott Christensen
  Dan Gerhartz
  Richard Schmid
  

EXHIBITIONS / AWARDS

 

COLLECTIONS