Jacob Aldridge is an oil painter whose work is deeply rooted in the study of color theory and its power to evoke impressions. Primarily painting from life, Jacob is inspired by the natural world and the intricate relationship between light and subject matter. His artistic journey is informed by a rich tapestry of influences, from the late 1800s through to the present day, with a particular focus on Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Expressionism.

Before fully committing to his art, Jacob served in the U.S. Navy on submarines, followed by a career as a mechanical engineer. This unique background informs his meticulous attention to detail and appreciation for the patterns and rhythms found in nature. Through his work, Jacob seeks to capture the endless beauty of the natural environment, exploring the vibrant palette that nature provides and the ever-changing dance of light across his subjects.

Exhibitions

2024

• Barn Gallery Regional Artists Open Juried Show, Ogunquit, ME – Early Bloom

• Annual Contemporary Abstract Exhibition, The Art Center, Dover, NH – Chromatic Relationships

• 25th Annual Joan L. Dunfey Open Juried Exhibit – Composition in Green (Honorable Mention)

• Sgt. James G. Wheeler Memorial Art Gallery – Undergrowth

Awards & Recognition

• Honorable Mention – 25th Annual Joan L. Dunfey Open Juried Exhibit (Composition in Green)

• Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award, Daughters of the American Revolution, Molly Stark Chapter (2024)

• ‘Vote in Honor of a Veteran’ Lapel Pin Design, New Hampshire Secretary of State (2024)

Press

• Great Bay Community College (GBCC) Feature – Meet Former GBCC Fine Arts Student and U.S. Navy Veteran, Jacob Aldridge (August 2024)

• The Hartfords Art Pages Feature – The Calm and the Chaos (September 2025)

Design & Creative Direction

• Creative Director & Lead Artist, Breakaway Café Rebrand (2024)

• Led the visual and brand transformation of Breakaway Café, refining its brand identity, signage, and digital presence.

• Designed website visuals and promotional materials to align with the café’s mission as a community-focused space.

Education

• University of Hartford, Hartford, CT – BFA in Fine Arts(Oil Painting) , Minor in Art History (Currently Enrolled)