Painters of Native American Indians - 20th. Century
One of the more prominent artists of the mid twentieth century to be associated with painting Native Americans is Kenneth P. Riley, who was born in 1919 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Riley began his interest in painting Native Americans towards the end of nineteen sixties. His first commission was on behalf of the U.S. Park Service who asked him to create several paintings focused on the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Although he had been active since the end of World War two as an artist covering several fields, from that time on Riley decided to devote his energies and considerable talents to painting scenes of the West. He moved his studio to Tucson, Arizona where he has remained active this day, painting scenes of American life as well as portraits.
Another modern artist is Howard Terpning, who is probably the most widely recognized of the modern American painter specializing in chronicling of Western scenes, having received more accolades than any Western artist painting today.
Born in 1927 in Illinois, Terpning earned a good living as an illustrator for the major Hollywood films studios Like Riley before him Terpning s interest in painting Native Americans began only in the late nineteen seventies when he was almost fifty years old. Leaving the glamour of Hollywood behind forever, Terpning moved out west and began to paint the Native Americans from photographs and sketches that he had, as well as in the flesh.
His collection of Native American paintings now numbers more than 300, most of which are displayed in museums all over the mid west of America.
Following in the footsteps of Riley and Terpning is Kirby Sattler whose portraits of the Native American emanate from a love and understanding of the history and spirituality of the “Plains Indian.” Sattler’s works are characterized by his unique style of paying very high attention to details. This create an uncanny an almost photo like realism, emphasized by the use of a layering technique.
Possibly the only native American Indian to gain prominence for her works to date is Millie Torres-Speeg. Millie boasts a mixed Taino (Native American) Indian and Spanish heritage. Her insight and personal connection to the culture of Native Americans has brought her the inspiration as well as a wealth of compassion, love, and respect for her heritage to create some beautiful impressions, especially portraits.
There are many talented painters throughout the ages who have used all the talents at their disposal to chronicle the lives of the Native American Indian, both in history and in modern times. The debt the American people owe them is immense.
