Michelle Thompson Rideout created this drawing of Fayetteville, Arkansas, which was used as a fundraiser to benefit the Children's House, a nonprofit, therapeutic day treatment center for preschool children who have been extremely neglected, and/or physically, emotionally or sexually abused. The Fayetteville civic club that sponsored this project had this to say about artist, Michelle Rideout:
"Michelle Thompson Rideout is fast becoming a modern day Norman Rockwell. Concentrating on towns of the South, she is one of the region's most prolific artists in capturing small town Americana.”
Rideout graduated from the University of North Alabama with a bachelor of science degree in graphic design. Soon afterwards she began working with her father, Tommy Thompson, also known for his sketches of Southern towns.
Rideout's composite pencil drawings reveal a meticulous attention to detail, which gives a delicate quality to the overall print. Her prints have often been used for fundraisers, raising money around the country and receiving greater prominence through features in national magazines.
Rideout has done drawings of the homes of the late record producer Sam Phillips and late author Alex Haley. Because her art prints are limited editions, they represent an investment that increases in value with time.
