William Brownridge was born in Rosetown, Saskatchewan,
grew
up in Vawn, Saskatchewan and now lives in Calgary, Alberta. Bill's sister Kay
Lake is a long time resident of Lloydminster. He grew up steeped in the hockey
culture that is an enduring part of any small Canadian town. Cast as an observer
by an uncooperative leg, Bill recalls watching in fascination as his older
brother developed the skills that would lead to a professional hockey career.
These years would later inspire his own talent for illustration and painting.
Since graduating from the Alberta Institute of Technology and Art, Bill has
worked in graphic design. In 1976 he was awarded a Canada Council grant to paint
and draw the disappearing railroad architecture of the Prairies. He produced
work for the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, and later designs for the new
uniforms for the NHL Calgary Flames.
In 1995, based on his love for hockey and his own childhood experiences as a
"moccasin goalie", Bill wrote and illustrated his first book for
children entitled The Moccasin Goalie and in 1997 a sequel The Final
Game.
Bill Brownridge is a well-established and highly regarded artist. His paintings
are favourites with many NHL players, coaches, and fans.
Regarding his work, Bill comments, "I paint from within, I paint my
memories – things that mean something to me."
