When The National Center put out a call for silent auction items at the 2021 Native American 40 Under 40 Awards ceremony, Raymond Nordwall and the Nordwall Gallery & Studio were happy to help, donating a hand-drawn monotype pencil sketch title Mandan (pictured above).

Raymond Nordwall and his wife, Gina, opened Nordwall Gallery & Studio in 1999. Before opening the gallery, Raymond spent years honing his craft, having started selling his work in galleries at age 12. He studies with artists including Johnny Tiger Jr., Dick West, Adam Fortune Eagle, and Frank Howell. Raymond, a graduate of the Institute of American Indian Arts, has cultivated a unique style over the years (the following is from Nordwall Gallery & Studio’s website):

While he was young, he emulated the Oklahoma “traditional” style of painting. After moving to Santa Fe, New Mexico, he studied the European masters’ work which greatly impacted a new approach to his painting style.  His style has also been influenced by impressionism, cubism, Japanese woodblock prints, Chinese masters and pop art. He has worked with several different painting mediums including oil, acrylic, mixed media, monotypes (an oil-based printing process), watercolor and etchings.

“I’ve discovered that working in different mediums allows my process to evolve, grow and change.  Each medium requires a different approach and focus which expands creativity and technique. Through my artwork, I want to inspire people to learn more about the Native American cultures and their appreciation of life and nature. When I’m in a beautiful place, I can’t help but think about the Creator, and I’m grateful for what He has given to us”.

We hope you enjoy learning more about Raymond Nordwall and Nordwall Gallery & Studio!

• Tell us about yourself and your business?

My name is Raymond Nordwall. I have been an artist for 35 years and am Pawnee, Cherokee, and Ojibwe. I started selling my work in galleries at 12 while I was studying under Johnny Tiger Jr. in Muskogee, Oklahoma. I graduated from the Institute of American Indian Arts and afterwards studied with Frank Howell. In my twenties and thirties, I showed at 15 galleries across the country. In 1999 my wife Gina and I opened our gallery, Nordwall Gallery & Studio, on Canyon Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

• How has your work been affected by COVID-19?

There were less tourists visiting the area and the gallery. It was heard when we had to be closed due to the pandemic, but it was my collectors who kept us going. We are also doing more online sales through our website, nordwallart.com.

• What advice would you give to aspiring Native entrepreneurs, especially Native artists?

Staying small has worked for me. Focusing on our collectors and working very hard has brought us much success. Faith also helps a lot.

• How can our readers stay connected with you and your business?

Readers can view our art, learn more, and make purchases by visiting our website at www.nordwallart.com