By Billie Olson and Hope Good
As we gathered recently to listen to the vibrant life story of artist Kevin Red Star in his new gallery in Red Lodge, Montana, a casual, comfortable atmosphere settled over the space. We began by sitting around a coffee table, but Kevin soon changed his mind from just talking. He immediately connected with us as he realized we were genuinely captivated by his story and he wanted to give us a personal art tour. His spirit instantly wanted to share his journey, walking us through decades of creativity that spanned art schools, worldly travels, the pages of his new pop-up book, and the quiet pride he holds for his heritage and family.
He spoke of politicians, his lovely parents, and paintings designated for family members or those holding a special spot within his tribe. Yet his narrative frequently circled back to the heart of his world: his daughters, grandchildren, and great- grandchild. You could see the immense pride he holds for the talent thriving in his family. His eyes would twinkle, his voice would lift with enthusiasm, and he would chuckle when sharing anecdotes about how they all remain actively involved in his life.
A Legacy Rooted in Culture and Art
Kevin Red Star, a proud member of the Apsáalooke (Crow) Nation was born and raised on the Crow Reservation in Lodge Grass, Montana. He has transcended the art world to become known world-wide as a revered historian, recorder, and ambassador for his people. His art is a vibrant testament to the rich culture and enduring spirit of the Plains Indians – a profound source of creative expression that bridges the past and the present with a unique, contemporary voice.
Raised in a family that valued both music and visual arts, Red Star’s path was set early on. His mother, Amy Bright Wings Red Star, was a skilled creator of powwow regalia, beadwork, and ceremonial clothing. His father, Wallace Red Star Sr., was a musician of the saxophone and Hawaiian steel guitar and a collector of Western art prints. This nurturing environment fostered a deep connection to his heritage and a desire to communicate it visually.
His formal training began at the groundbreaking Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he was a member of the school’s inaugural class in 1962. Further studies at the San Francisco Art Institute exposed him to avant-garde movements, which he masterfully integrated with traditional Crow imagery to develop his signature style.
A Unique Artistic Vision
Red Star’s paintings are instantly recognizable, characterized by a bold palette, compelling design elements, and stylized depictions of Native American people and life. He expertly combines historical accuracy with contemporary flair, often using striking color choices or exaggerating anatomical features for dramatic effect.
His work explores various themes, including depictions of warriors, dancers in intricate regalia, tipis, and horses, drawing inspiration from late 19th-century Crow life and ceremonies. Within this art, symbolism is key, with every element, from the cut of a garment to the symbols on a shield or tipi, holding specific cultural significance and meaning.
Regarding technique, Red Star is proficient in multiple mediums, including oil, acrylic, and various printmaking techniques, and he uses collages and mixed media to push artistic boundaries. Although he acquired proficiency in oils during his formal schooling, he eventually transitioned primarily to acrylics in 1999 when his daughter Merida was pregnant
with his first and only grandson, Mason Red Star-Miller. The strong odor and chemical nature of turpentine became a health concern, leading him to embrace water-based mediums.
A Gift of Connection and Understanding
Beyond the technical mastery, Red Star’s art possesses a warmth and generosity of spirit that deeply resonates with people. He sees himself as a storyteller, sharing his culture with the world and ensuring its rich history is never forgotten. His works are held in permanent collections of major institutions worldwide, including the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian and the Whitney Museum of Western Art.
Red Star has also consistently given back to the communities he has lived in, painting stylized horses and buffalo to help fundraise for children and aspiring artists. Children hold a very special spot in his heart. When his great-grandson walked in during our visit, we immediately engaged in a spirited game of catch—the first time I have ever thrown a ball in a gallery! Soon after the game of catch, the youngster went to retrieve more toys to share with us.
Several family members have been actively involved in managing his artistic business. His oldest daughter, Merida Red Star (Miller), was his business partner and managed his works in galleries until her passing in 2008. She is survived by her son, Mason Miller, who grew up in the art world and was instrumental in encouraging his grandfather to open a new gallery in Red Lodge after the previous one closed. Today, Mason’s wife, Jovi Rosselott, serves as the gallery director for the Kevin Red Star Gallery, carrying on the family legacy.
His daughter Sunny Sky Red Star is also an artist and has served as her father’s assistant, exhibiting their work together in joint shows. She has currently retired the brushes for now, as she walks through her healing of her sisters’ passing. Kevin also has a son, Coyote.
In addition to his gallery in Red Lodge, Red Star’s works can be seen in Montana at the Cawdrey Gallery in Whitefish, and the Courtney Collins Fine Art Gallery in Big Sky. Now living and working in Roberts, Montana, he continues to create, driven by the belief that his next piece will be his best. His enduring optimism and tireless work ethic serve as an inspiration to young artists everywhere. Kevin Red Star’s legacy is one of pride, cultural affirmation, and the power of art to preserve and celebrate a people’s spirit. His paintings are not just images; they are a heartfelt invitation into the world of the Apsáalooke, a world brought to life through the eyes and hands of a true Montana treasure.
Kevin Red Star Gallery – 11 N. Broadway Ave, Red Lodge, Montana – website is kevinredstar.com.