Merle L. Big Bow

Born and raised on the Rocky Boy’s Reservation,Merle is a member of the Chippewa Cree tribe in north-central Montana. He has been drawn to art since childhood and is a self-taught artist. Once working in many vocations from tribal police officer to apartment maintenance, Merle relocated to pursue his career as an artist full time. He now resides with his wife and three beautiful children near the Mission Mountains in northwest Montana.

View works by Merle L. Big Bow here>>

PHILOSOPHY

Art is basic to life. Art offers spiritual practice affording inspiration to create while preserving cultural values of native peoples.

GOALS

Primary goal: Support the advancement and continuation of career as an artist, attend IAIA art school in Santa Fe, to obtain a degree in studio arts. Secondary goal: become a recognized artist and present work at the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian. Merle also wishes to use his experience as an artist to teach, mentor and share with others his knowledge.

STYLE

Merle works in several mediums which include acrylics, watercolor, antler sculpture and gourd stitch beadwork. His style reflects American Indian imagery and the use of all natural materials.

TECHNIQUE

Craftsman-construction rawhide shields and drums,acrylic and watercolor paintings, antler sculptures, rattles, weapons and regalia replica’s and most recently painted feathers.

CONTACT

nicolebigbow@yahoo.com