Wade Brown
Acrylic
RAVENS RWB 23
PUEBLO PRAYER 2
BUFFALO SPLASH
SANDIA SCOUTS
For 50+ years I have seldom been without a book of 19th century Americana on my nightstand. My love of this era, combined with an ambition to pursue art, resulted in changing careers mid-life to follow my passion – painting.
I am self-taught and look for images that “take me somewhere.” I am fascinated by the dramatic changes in Native American lifestyle that took place in a span of little more than a hundred years. Originally, seasonal nomadic hunters and planters they moved to a fully nomadic horse culture of hunters. This new mobility and logistic improvement gave wealth and security that required less time for subsistence. More time was spent on the rich and colorful clothing, accoutrements, paintings and ceremonies that I consider compelling art.
It is an art of symbols. I am drawn to the simplicity, practicality and personal independence of their value system and highly individual spirituality.
Wade Brown’s acrylic exploits robes tell the story of an individual throughout his lifetime. Originals were painted on buffalo hides and were added to year after year as new exploits were pursued. The few remaining originals are in private collections and museums. Wade’s smaller versions target a broader audience. These works add to any Native American themed collection, or as a special accent piece for more contemporary tastes.
Wade has expanded his works to include Native American images, landscapes and wildlife in acrylic on canvas. Most recently he has added watercolors to his repertoire.
For more information: R. Wade Brown Studio Fine Art