Courtney Christopher
Hometown: Polson, Montana
Major medium: Graphite, oil
Art background: University of Montana
Courtney Christopher is a native of Polson, Montana and a graduate of the University of Montana. He graduated in 1990 with a business degree, after which he joined the Marine Corps and was winged a Naval Aviator in 1993. After eight years in the service, Major Christopher returned to Montana, pursuing his art and desire to teach by returning to the University to study education in social sciences and art. He graduated in 2004 and know works as a history teacher and coach in Stevensville.
Courtney's artwork is inspired by the history of Montana and the West. His technique is meticulous and detailed and expresses a love for his subject matter and the spirit that inspires him.
His most recent pieces are inspired by the journals of Lewis and Clark and the life of Sacajawea. His five-piece series Members of the Corps depicts the members of Lewis and Clark's company who aided and guided the American explorers along their trek. Drouillard, a
French member of the Corps, is shown in his role as hunter. Sacajawea is depicted in a solo portrait that evokes an emotional element of her personality, which is so frequently depicted as stern and independent. Cameahwait is Sacajawea's brother whom she hadn't seen since her childhood and who was cheif of the Shoshone tribe when the Corps met them in eastern Idaho. Old Toby accompanied the corps from his homeland with the Shoshone into the southern reaches of the Bitterroot Valley. Sacajawea is depicted again with her infant son Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau who was born along the trail westward.
Courtney's work also includes depictions of Sacajawea herself during various events throughout the journey. May 15, 1804 illustrates Sacajawea salvaging journals and other important documents from the river after the capsizing of a pieroge. Unseasonable Weather portrays her during the cruel winter weather the Corps encountered in the Northern Rockies.
Courtney's pieces are as individual as his style, and he chooses media that evoke the content of his work, thus distinguishing himself as a multi-talented art maker and craftsman.
His newest project involves a series of bronze sculpture depicting captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and other members of their company. Sacajawea Gallery is proud to display and is now taking orders for his premier piece in this series, Cpt. Lewis, which will be cast in a limited edition in bronze later this year. The piece stands 24" tall and is mounted on a wooden base.
More of Courtney Christopher's work is on display currently at Sacajawea Gallery, and prints and originals are now availible for sale. Contact the gallery at (406) 777-3806 ext. 108 or katy@sacajaweagallery.com
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Sacajawea Gallery - 301 Main st. Stevensville, MT 59870 - (406) 777-3806
