Joe De Yong

Joe De Yong, born in Webster Grove, Missouri, was a painter and sculptor known for his depictions of Indian and western subjects. Raised in Indian territory, he worked as a cowboy and learned fancy roping from Will Rogers. After contracting spinal meningitis in childhood and losing hearing, he became fluent in Indian sign language. Primarily self-taught, De Yong’s artistic development was deeply influenced by Charles Russell, with whom he worked in Montana from 1916 to 1926. Following Russell’s death, De Yong became his “artistic heir” and guardian of his legacy. Through his friendship with the Russells and Howard Eaton, De Yong spent time painting in Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Later, he moved to California, where he worked as a technical advisor in the film industry, living in Pasadena and Santa Barbara. His works continue to reflect his deep connection to the western frontier and Native American culture.