8/09 ~ Montana’s Rich Art Heritage

Edgar S. Paxson ~ Oil
8/7/09 ~ I am anxious for some feedback on this topic, but I get the impression Montanans may not be fully aware of the astounding art heritage that documents it’s happenings and history. I grew up in Montana and developed a strong interest in the frontier and historic happenings in Montana and the west in general from the period 1825 to 1925.
I am not sure there is any other state that had the number of important western American artists that documented life, nature, important moments as did Montana. A short list of noted Montana artists are Charles M. Russell (of course), Edgar S. Paxson, Ralph Earl DeCamp, William Standing, Hart Merriam Shultz (Lone Wolf), Olaf C. Seltzer, Joseph Henry Sharp, Robert Scriver, J.K. Ralston, L.A. Huffman, Joe DeYong, John Fery, Ace Powell and a few others. These artist lived in Montana, they were not merely visitors. These artists are all highly sought after painters, photographers, sculptures who documented western life in Montana. They are sought after by dealers and collectors throughout the country.

William Standing ~ Pen & Ink
Since leaving Montana nearly 25 years ago and moving to Colorado and being immersed in the historic western art market the entire time, it has become apparent to me that Montana may have the richest and most diverse art history of any western state. Like many Montanans, I took it’s unsurpassed art heritage for granted, and I realized that once I was gone.

C.M. Russell ~ Oil
If you live in Montana, and have not done so, go visit the Montana Historical Society in Helena, C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls, Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, Western Heritage Center in Billings, Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell, and many other smaller and fine public and private museums throughout Montana. Appreciate and cherish the unique and rich art heritage and western history that exists in Montana!
Mike Raunig, Owner
Raunig Art Enterprises
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