Los Angeles, CA — In the ever-evolving landscape of American art, few stories are as compelling as the posthumous rise of Oscar Howe. A Yanktonai Dakota artist who defied conventions, Howe’s legacy is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, captivating collectors and art enthusiasts alike. As we delve into the extraordinary life and work of this pioneering artist, we uncover a tale of perseverance, innovation, and the power of artistic vision to transcend barriers. Born in 1915 on the Crow Creek Reservation in South Dakota, Oscar Howe’s journey was far from ordinary. Overcoming tuberculosis and the rigid constraints of traditional Native American art education, Howe embarked on a path that would reshape the very definition of Indigenous art.
Camte waste, no no wa (“Good Heart Forever”) Price Realized: $325,000
““Camte Waste, No No Wa” (Good Heart Forever): A mesmerizing depiction of an Eagle Dancer that soared to $325,000, shattering its estimate and setting a new auction record for Howe’s work. ”
Howe’s genius lay in his ability to seamlessly blend Sioux cultural heritage with the bold techniques of modernism. His canvases burst with vibrant colors, geometric patterns, and fluid forms, bringing traditional symbols like the Eagle Dancer and the Sacred Dog (horse) to life with a contemporary flair. This unique fusion challenged the art world’s preconceptions and opened new avenues for Native American artists.
Perhaps the most pivotal moment in Howe’s career came in 1958 when the Philbrook Art Center rejected his work for being “too modern.” In response, Howe penned a passionate letter that would become a rallying cry for artistic freedom in Native American art. His words, “There is much more to Indian art than pretty, stylized pictures,” still resonate today, underscoring the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect in the art world.
Fast forward to 2022, when the exhibition Dakota Modern: The Art of Oscar Howe hit the road, bringing his visionary work to a whole new generation. The response was electric. With each passing year, more collectors and institutions are scrambling to secure a piece of Howe’s legacy, recognizing its historical weight and timeless appeal.
Grass Dancer (Pezhin wachipi), 1959 Price Realized: $114,300
In 2023-2024, Howe’s art has finally been validated in the marketplace. John Moran Auctioneers, a leader in Native American art, shattered records, setting new sales benchmarks for Howe’s work. These aren’t just record-breaking numbers—they’re a long-overdue acknowledgment of Howe’s genius and the indelible mark he left on Native American art.
As we raise a glass to Howe’s epic comeback, we’re reminded that real artistic genius doesn’t play by the rules. Oscar Howe’s story is a triumph on every level—over adversity, over narrow-mindedness, and, in the end, over time itself. His art, once dismissed as “too modern,” now stands tall as a powerful testament to innovation and cultural pride. Sometimes, the boldest moves aren’t about breaking from the past—they’re about honoring it, while charging at full-speed into the future. Howe’s star continues to rise, a shining reminder that true artistic vision knows no boundaries. The greatest rebellions don’t always shatter tradition; sometimes, they breathe new life into it. Stay true to your vision, no matter how wild the ride gets.
Maranda Moran Vice President Specialist, Western Art & Objects