Bill Owen

Bill Owen biography:

Bill Owen is a highly respected artist known for his realistic depictions of the western genre, a passion deeply rooted in his upbringing and family background. Born in Gila Bend, Arizona, and currently residing in Kirkland, Arizona, Owen’s connection to the western lifestyle runs deep — his father was a cowboy and his mother an artist, which greatly influenced his artistic path.

Owen’s artistic journey is marked by significant achievements and contributions to the western art community. He became a member of the prestigious Cowboy Artists of America (CAA) in 1973, an organization dedicated to promoting and preserving western art traditions. Throughout his career, Owen’s mastery in painting earned him special recognition, including being elected as President of the CAA three times and receiving the CAA Award multiple times for his outstanding exhibition entries as voted by fellow members.

In addition to his involvement with the CAA, Owen joined the National Academy of Western Artists in 1991, further solidifying his place in the western art scene. His artistic prowess was honored with the Frederic Remington Award for Artistic Merit from the Cowboy Hall of Fame in 1993, followed by being named the Rendezvous Artist by the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1996.

One of Owen’s notable achievements came in 2003 at the Prix de West Invitational Exhibition and Sale, where he received the inaugural Express Ranches Great American Cowboy Award. This accolade underscored his contribution to celebrating and preserving the cowboy heritage through art.

Despite facing a significant challenge in 1989 when a rodeo-related accident resulted in the loss of sight in his right eye, Owen persevered in his artistic career. Prior to the accident, he was also a skilled sculptor, but the loss of depth perception prompted him to focus solely on painting.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Bill Owen is recognized for his philanthropic efforts. In 1995, he founded The Arizona Cowpuncher’s Scholarship Organization, demonstrating his commitment to supporting higher education for young people from ranching families in Arizona.

Bill Owen’s life and work exemplify a deep-seated dedication to portraying and preserving the spirit of the American West through his art, influencing and inspiring generations of artists and admirers alike.

Painting:

(Click image to enlarge)

“The Lost Is Now Found”
Bill Owen
Oil   15″ x 30″
$35,000

See additional information about “The Lost Is Now Found”.

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