Michael Riddle was raised in Questa. He always had a keen eye for art, often being able to create designs from a young age. “I remember in elementary school, I used to freehand sports team logos for my friends. It’s just been something that has intrigued me.”
It was during his senior year at Questa High School that he uncovered his true potential. “I took Mrs. Vialpando’s art course, and it was really the moment that I realized I loved painting.”
Riddle prefers acrylic to oil paintings, as he says it’s easier to change and manipulate with little down time. “Oil paintings require a lot of patience and I like to have the freedom to go in and make changes to my work.”
Currently, Riddle works as a freelance artist, often being commissioned by businesses in northern Taos County for work. Much of his work is focused on trout-related art. He also does custom paintings, digital logo design, and digital drawing.
“When I am commissioned, I like to speak with the customer and ask a lot of questions. I do my best work when I can be creative and make their vision come to life,” he says. Riddle says patience is key when producing his best work. “When my customers are patient, it gives me the time and space to produce something great.”
Last year, he had the opportunity to design the beer labels for Boxing Bear Brewing Company. He created the label for Just Jonesin’ 3, a strawberry mango Goose Beer.
Riddle lives in Albuquerque and has a 14-year-old son named Braden. Although his home is not living in northern New Mexico, he is deeply connected to his roots and maintains connections across the northern New Mexico area, which has resulted in many opportunities to create art for local businesses.
After working for 13 years at General Mills, Riddle decided to take a leap of faith toward becoming a tattoo artist. “I am currently in the process of completing a tattoo apprenticeship and plan to become a tattoo artist, hopefully soon. This is one way I can be an artist and help people’s visions come to life.”
You can follow his journey on Instagram @MikeRiddleArt.
