Kyril Bruce DeFoor has been passionate about art for as long as he can remember. When he first picked up a brush in the 1960s, he found inspiration in legendary Western artist Charlie Russell. Over the years, Western themes became central to his artistic vision, shaping a career that would span decades and leave an indelible mark on the art world.
For nearly forty years, DeFoor worked as an educator, teaching art at various levels while continuing to refine his own craft. Even as a professor, his work was exhibited in galleries across the United States, earning recognition for its originality and craftsmanship. Though he loved teaching, his true passion was always painting. Eleven years ago, he made a bold decision— moving to Montana to pursue fine art full-time. The transition from educator to full-time artist was not without challenges, but DeFoor embraced it with enthusiasm, eager to push his creativity further. Today, he is making waves in the Montana art scene, bringing a fresh perspective to a time-honored tradition.
As DeFoor set out to make his mark in Montana, he knew he needed to set himself apart. “I had an epiphany that I should take historical artists and insert them into a modern setting,” he explains. This concept—blending the past with the present—has become his signature style. His work challenges traditional interpretations of Western art, introducing elements of artistic fusion that spark conversations.
But DeFoor’s philosophy goes beyond technique. He believes every artist must carve out a unique voice. “You have to find your voice,” he says. His voice, as it turns out, is one of nonconformity and transformation. By merging classical Western motifs with contemporary influences, he brings a fresh dynamism to the genre. His work honors the past while simultaneously pushing its boundaries, proving that Western art is far from static—it’s alive, evolving, and full of possibilities.
For many artists, naming a painting comes as an afterthought, a challenge to find the right words to capture its essence. DeFoor, however, takes the opposite approach. “For me, it all starts with an idea of an interesting name and how it could be interpreted in a Western context,” he says. “I see the painting before I even put the brush to canvas.”
A prime example of this creative process is his piece Wide Awake Now. The painting depicts a cowboy on horseback, glancing over his shoulder while firing a shot. It’s a scene rich with tension and meaning—one that can be interpreted in multiple ways. For DeFoor, it represents the idea that sometimes, we need a wake- up call to truly see what’s happening around us. The painting’s title plays into this narrative, adding layers of depth that make the viewer think beyond the surface image.
DeFoor’s ability to blend historical reverence with modern techniques has earned him a spot at one of the most prestigious Western art events—the Russell Auction. This year, he will showcase his original painting C.M. Russell in 3D, a breathtakingly detailed depiction of Russell’s paintings, sculpture and memorabilia of the famed artist. The painting’s realism is so striking that it could easily be mistaken for a photograph. It’s a testament to DeFoor’s skill, as well as his dedication.
His participation in the Russell Auction solidifies his place among today’s most innovative Western artists. By challenging conventional interpretations and redefining what Western art can
be, he is making the genre more diverse and dynamic, opening the door for new perspectives and ideas.
Art lovers and collectors will have the chance to see DeFoor’s work firsthand at the Best of the West Art Show, where he will be featured in booths 39 and 40. Stop by to see the unveiling of a special painting live at the show.
To explore more of Kyril Bruce DeFoor’s art, visit westernpop.com.