Adobe Gallery Blog
Oil Painting “Red Rocks—Near Gallup” by Joseph R. Willis - C3835
Category: Paintings | Posted by | Tue, Nov 1st 2016, 6:08pm
Joseph R. Willis (1876-1960) is best known for his Indian photographs and paintings and southwestern landscapes. Before moving to the Southwest, he had earlier traveled throughout the Southeastern part of the United States where he took advantage of the beauty of the region to paint many portraits and landscapes.
In 1917, he settled in Gallup, New Mexico, where he established a photography studio. Then in 1931, he moved to Albuquerque where he settled for the remainder of his life. After leaving Gallup, Willis spent more time painting than photographing. His style was realism, not unexpected since his eye was trained for photography. His paintings are not photo realistic, but are softer in presentation.