Who Was Charlie Russell? The Cowboy Artist of the American West

When we think of the American West—its rugged landscapes, roaming buffalo, and stories of cowboys and Native nations—few artists captured it quite like Charles Marion Russell, also known as Charlie Russell.

The Cowboy-Turned-Artist

Born in 1864 in St. Louis, Missouri, Charlie Russell didn’t just paint the West—he lived it. At 16, he headed to Montana, where he worked as a cowboy, ranch hand, and wrangler. These experiences gave him firsthand insight into the life, land, and legends that he would later immortalize through his art.

The Art of the Frontier

Charlie Russell became famous for his vivid and heartfelt paintings, sculptures, and illustrations that depicted:

• Cowboys and ranch life

• Native American culture and traditions

• The natural beauty of the untamed West

• Historical events and folklore

He created over 2,000 works of art, earning him the nickname “The Cowboy Artist.”
His style was authentic, full of movement and emotion—capturing not just what the West looked like, but what it felt like.

More Than Just Paintings

Russell was also a storyteller. He wrote short stories and crafted illustrated letters that were as colorful as his paintings. His work became a cultural bridge between the mythic West and the modern world.

His Legacy

Today, Charlie Russell is remembered as one of America's most iconic Western artists. His pieces are displayed in museums across the country, including:

• The C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls, Montana

• The Amon Carter Museum in Texas

• The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma

His art helped preserve a fading chapter of American history—and continues to inspire those drawn to the spirit of the West.

Why We Celebrate Him

At Outwest Rags, we believe in honoring the true spirit of the frontier—grit, independence, and storytelling. Charlie Russell didn’t just paint the West—he defined it.

And that legacy still rides strong today.