Chickasaw artist ‘Best in Show’ at Denver

CONTRIBUTED BY Gene Lehmann, Media Relations.

This article appeared in the March 2015 edition of the Chickasaw Times

DENVER – Chickasaw artist Brent Greenwood’s Native Sisters was named “Best in Show” at the 22nd Annual Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale in Denver.

“Brent Greenwood is a very talented artist who pays tribute to Chickasaw culture and history in his work,” Gov. Bill Anoatubby said. “He is a credit to the Chickasaw Nation. This award is a great reflection on his talent and dedication to his craft.”  

Native Sisters depicts Native American women from three different tribes.

“I am extremely humbled to have been chosen for this award,” Mr. Greenwood said. “Although most of my work does contain some kind of narrative behind it, it’s refreshing to know that people can still connect to my art without knowing the full interpretation.”

Best known for his historical and abstract acrylic paintings, he strives to connect with art lovers on an emotional and spiritual level.

A native Oklahoman and contemporary artist of Chickasaw and Ponca heritage, Mr. Greenwood was born in Midwest City, Okla. He is a fine arts disciplines graduate of the Institute of American Indian Arts and Oklahoma City University. He serves as Indian Education Program Assistant for Edmond (OK) Public Schools and will return this summer to teach at the Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy.

Mr. Greenwood is recognizable to many for his participation in the Chickasaw Nation’s United We Thrive commercials. He appeared in Last of the Mohicans, and in the independent documentary I Said I Would Never Paint This Way Again.

The Denver show included works of 65 artists from the U.S., Canada and Europe. Participating artists are considered among the finest contemporary realists working in a variety of mediums from oil and photography to clay and bronze.

The acrylic painting included elk teeth, artificial sinew and was displayed on a 24 x 30 canvas.

Native Sisters was selected the featured image for the Native Crossroads Film Festival in Norman, Okla., Feb. 26-28. Mr. Greenwood will display the work at the world-class Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival June 5-7 in Oklahoma City.