Joe G. Russell (1926-2008)

Joe G. Russell (1926-2008)

He was born in Austin, Texas, August 23, 1926 to Gladys Greer Russell and Joe A. Russell. He began to put his view of Texas down on paper at age four. As he grew up his Grandfather Will and Great Grandfather Hardin Russell were sheriffs of Blanco County. Joe and his father were accomplished horsemen and enjoyed membership in the Capital City Mounted Posse, a precision-riding club. These interests united with his art in early drawings of horses and riders as well as western scenes painted in oils.

First studying agriculture in college, he became serious about art at the University of Texas. A commercial art career at the prestigious Graphics Studio in Austin led to directing art at the Texas A&M Press in College Station. During this time, he also worked in his home studio and became affiliated with galleries in Houston and Austin. He then decided it was time to follow his heart. In 1966 Joe moved his family to Kerrville where he began painting in oils full time. His quiet studio was at the end of a typical ranch road south of town.

Joe G. Russell was a quiet unassuming gentleman who preferred to let his art do his talking for him. When a subject matter made its way into his heart and mind it mixed with his honesty and clear view of how wonderful this world around us really is as he put it down on canvas. He was inspired by God's creations. You may want to go riding on his hillsides, take a dip in the cool streams and explore every building tucked into his landscapes. His skies are magic carpets to escape on. The people he portrayed appear to have stories to tell in their eyes.

Joe continued his studies at the Banff School of Fine Art and Cloudcroft, New Mexico. He concentrated on portraiture for several years at the Marion Koogler McNay Museum in San Antonio, Texas. He would have told you that experience was his best teacher… creating a style and technique all his own.   Joe left this life August 27, 2008; he is missed as his spirit lives on in his work.

Information provided by Linda Karst Stone