About
Artist Statement
As an artist, I work in the space between realism and abstraction—where suggestion, rhythm, and intuition meet. I’m drawn to movement, both visual and emotional, and often let music guide the energy and flow of a painting. As a saxophone player, I think in terms of rhythm, improvisation, and contrast. That same spirit comes through in my brushstrokes, texture choices, and layering techniques.
Living near the Gulf of America, I’m constantly inspired by the wildlife, light, and natural elements of the Florida coast. I spend a lot of time outdoors—hunting, fishing, observing—and these experiences find their way into my art. The connection between man and nature, chaos and calm, is something I explore in every piece.
Meet the Artist
Tony Akridge is a multi-medium artist based in Freeport, Florida, near the shimmering shores of the Gulf of America. Specializing in abstract realism, Tony’s work blends expressive freedom with refined detail, capturing both the seen and the felt.
A graduate of the Milan Art Institute in Sarasota, Florida, Tony brings a rich creative background to his studio practice. His passion for music, particularly smooth jazz, finds expression not only in his paintings but also in his life as a saxophone player—fueling his rhythm, flow, and emotional depth on canvas.
Deeply connected to the natural world, Tony is an avid outdoorsman. His love for hunting, saltwater fishing, and observing wildlife in their natural habitats influences both his subject matter and his appreciation for the untamed beauty of nature.
Whether exploring the energy of a live performance or the quiet tension of a forest at dawn, Tony Akridge’s work invites viewers into a layered world where music, nature, and visual art converge.