Judd Mercer (b. 1982) creates landscape paintings that capture fleeting, dramatic moments of light to evoke a sense of awe and wonder. "Light is everything—my main ingredient, setting the tone and emotion of the scene," explains the Colorado native whose artistic journey began in industrial design before rediscovering painting while illustrating a novel. His distinctive process combines methodical planning with energetic execution: "I'm very methodical in planning, but chaotic in execution," using layered techniques where brushwork becomes as compelling as the subject. Initially self-taught in watercolor through intensive study of masters like Joseph Zbukvic and Alvaro Castagnet, Mercer evolved toward gouache influenced by Mike Hernandez, ultimately embracing oils for their depth and impact. His work, which aims to capture "epic, awe-inspiring moments where nature's majesty makes us feel small," has earned recognition including features in Plein Air Magazine's "10 Artists to Collect Now" and the Laguna Art Museum/Bob Braun Presentation Award.