Oil Originals: Hyrum Joe

Although Hyrum might be recognized as the son of the internationally known alabaster sculptor and bronze artist, Oreland Joe, he has certainly proved that he can stand on his own two feet. Hyrum creates some of the most visually compelling and original works of art in oil that we've seen by anyone his age. Last year he won the SWAIA fellowship and subsequently sold out at his very first Indian Market event.

We are delighted to have this opportunity to show Hyrum's work, which can be seen in only a handful of the most prestigious galleries in Colorado and New Mexico. Because of our close, personal relationship, we were lucky enough to acquire these recent originals, and we look forward to bringing you more.

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What a great face! Hyrum is well known for his ability to capture the rich expressions found in the faces of his subject matter. His portaits are some of his most popular works, and this old man from Sheepsprings should be no exception. His heishi necklace tells you that he's probably coming from a formal event, but his mesh hat reminds you of his rural lifestyle, where at a moment's notice he'll be helping to unload sheep from the back of a trailer, or haul water from the well across the valley. He's put in many good years of hard work, and the young men look to him for wisdom and advice. He has the experience that only life on the reservation can bring. You can see it in his eyes.

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