Artists to Watch | Matt Atkinson - Southwest Art Magazine

Legends and legacies

Matt Atkinson, The Story of the Blackfeet Bear Knife, oil, 20 x 30.

Storytelling is one of the hallmarks of great western art, and Matt Atkinson’s work has it in spades. His portraits and figurative scenes present detailed narratives of Native American and western life, with all of the epic history and heroism that western art connoisseurs appreciate and admire.

Atkinson’s charcoal drawing MANY WINTERS is a perfect example. This 36-by-24-inch piece depicts a Native American warrior holding symbols of his heritage close to his heart, his demeanor pensive and his eyes filled with reflection. “This portrait of an elder and friend, who was battling cancer at the time, represents the strength and courage he demonstrated in the face of his battle,” Atkinson explains. “As he contemplates his life experiences, he also is thinking about how things will continue to change in the future. He has since passed, and this piece has great significance to me, as I consider how my life is changing, too.”

: Matt Atkinson, Lance Carrier, oil, 20 x 16.

: Matt Atkinson, Many Winters, charcoal, 36 x 24.

: Matt Atkinson, Horse and Boy, graphite, 14 x 11.

As technically sound as it is poignant, MANY WINTERS won Best of Show and Best Drawing at the Western Spirit Art Show & Sale held earlier this year in Cheyenne, WY; Atkinson also won Best of Show there last year. And at last year’s Bosque Art Classic in Clifton, TX, he received both a Gold Medal and Purchase Award for the second time.

As much as Colorado-based Atkinson is enjoying the accolades, he is eager to continue growing as an artist and set the bar even higher. Most of all, he wants to further connect with his subject matter while serving his community; he has worked as a volunteer chaplain for Native American prison inmates and has also worked closely with many tribes as program director and consultant. “One of the most rewarding aspects of being a western artist is being a part of so many amazing stories,” he says. “I’ve met tribal elders, traditional saddle-makers, young warriors and activists, and mountain men. It’s important to listen to their experiences and preserve their memory. They are stalwarts and caretakers of our heritage, and I feel fortunate to have been entrusted with their stories.” –Allison Malafronte