Randall Blaze

Randall Blaze, of Oglala Lakota descent, grew up and graduated from high school in Montana. Then, he enlisted in the US Navy.

Blaze went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with honors from the University of Montana in 1977. He has received more than 80 national awards over three decades for his artwork. Blaze has participated in international exhibitions, and his work is represented in numerous public and private collections.

Today, the artist resides in South Dakota on the land of his ancestors. He finds it a peaceful place … a land of beautiful sunrises and beautiful sunsets.

He has opened a gallery and art center fully equipped with studios for ceramics, metal smithing, painting and two-dimensional design. Oglala Art Center provides intercurriculum workshops for students K-12 and is available for continuing adult education. He also works with children through the artist-in-schools program for the South Dakota Arts Council.

“I travel to schools all over the state, although I am partial to working on the rez, as it allows me to come full circle with my life and heritage. I was taught the concepts and techniques of art by a generation before me, and I will pass that knowledge on to a generation after me.”

“I am creatively aware of the secret workings of nature and natural materials. Every medium manipulated by an artist has its own distinct and special nature. Creatively exploring variations in nature has been my motivation as an artist until 9-11.”

His post 9-11 pieces often portray the human spirit among chaos and destruction.

“Competition is a stimulating and positive aspect of my life. It is a way for me to endeavor to the best I am capable of being as an artist. It makes me think of the pride my Oglala ancestors would feel counting coup. It makes me feel like a modern day road warrior.”

Source: aktalakota