Wayne Cooper, Yuchi Artist
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Wayne Cooper (1942- ) is an internationally known artist and a member of the Yuchi Tribe of Oklahoma, born on May 7, 1942, near Depew, Oklahoma. He specializes in Western and American Indian art, drawing inspiration from his Native American heritage and his upbringing on a small Oklahoma ranch.
Artistic Career and Style
A full-time artist, Cooper's diverse media include oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, pastel, charcoal, bronze sculpture, and lithographs. His professional career began in the early 1960s. His early training included work with celebrated Potawatomi artist Woody Crumbo at Bacone College, as well as studies at the Famous Artists School, the Gary Artist League, Valparaiso University, and the American Atelier in New York City.
He is widely acknowledged for his historically accurate portrayals of Western and American Indian subjects, often on large canvases. His work is held in numerous public and private collections worldwide, including the Will Rogers Memorial, the Gilcrease Museum, and the Oklahoma Heritage Museum. Notably, he has been commissioned to create over a dozen large-scale art pieces for the Oklahoma State Capitol, including paintings for the Senate and House of Representatives halls.
Overcoming Adversity
Cooper's dedication to his craft is underscored by a near-career-ending event. According to Art of The West (Jan/Feb 1994), "A car accident which cost Cooper the use of his right hand and arm, as well as temporarily blinding him, almost ended his painting career." Yet, through immense effort and persistence, he was able to regain full use of his hand and arm and resume his successful artistic practice.
Notable Commissions
Among his significant works are two large-scale bronze sculptures commissioned by the town of Perkins, Oklahoma: one of legendary cowboy Frank Eaton (also known as "Pistol Pete," the Oklahoma State University mascot) and another of Iowa Chief No Heart.