Charles Marion Russell

Date of Birth: March 19, 1864

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: October 24, 1926

Biography

Charles Marion Russell, often referred to as C.M. Russell, was an iconic American artist renowned for his depictions of the American West. Born on March 19, 1864, in St. Louis, Missouri, Russell developed a passion for the cowboy lifestyle and the landscapes of the West from a young age. He moved to Montana at the age of 16, where he worked as a cowboy and wrangler, gaining firsthand experience that deeply influenced his art. Russell’s career as an artist began to flourish in the late 1880s, and he became well-known for his vivid and authentic portrayals of Native Americans, cowboys, and wildlife. Over his lifetime, he created more than 2,000 paintings, sketches, and sculptures that captured the spirit and essence of the frontier life. Russell married Nancy Cooper in 1896, who played a significant role in managing his career and promoting his work. Together, they moved to Great Falls, Montana, where he continued to produce art until his death on October 24, 1926. Today, C.M. Russell is celebrated as one of the greatest artists of the American West, and his works are highly sought after by collectors and museums.

5 Interesting Facts about Charles Marion Russell

1. Charles Marion Russell is often called the “Cowboy Artist” due to his authentic representations of the Old West.

2. Russell created a famous mural titled “Lewis and Clark Meeting the Flathead Indians,” which is displayed in the Montana State Capitol.

3. He was an honorary member of the Cowboy Hall of Fame.

4. Russell’s home and studio in Great Falls, Montana, have been preserved as a museum dedicated to his life and work.

5. He was known for his sense of humor and often included playful elements in his art, such as hidden images or humorous scenes.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charles Marion Russell

1. “The West is dead… you may lose a sweetheart but you won’t forget her.”

2. “I am not a master, but an artist.”

3. “I never saw a man who wished to be himself until I saw the man who wished to be a cowboy.”

4. “An artist must be born again every day.”

5. “I have always been satisfied with my art because it is the best I can do.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Charles Marion Russell’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, primarily from the sales of his paintings and sculptures.