John Norval Marchand

John Marchand, born in Leavenworth, Kansas, became a painter, sculptor, and prolific illustrator whose work was heavily influenced by the western frontier. Growing up in Indian Territory, he developed a deep understanding of western life. At 16, his family moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he studied at the Harwood Art School and worked for the Minneapolis Journal. At 20, he became staff artist for the New York World, and from 1897 to 1899, he studied at the Munich Academy in Germany. Returning to New York, Marchand continued as an illustrator, making frequent trips west for inspiration. In 1902, he met Charles Russell in Montana and later helped bring him to New York, where he introduced him to art editors and publishers. Marchand married in 1904 and moved to Westport, Connecticut, where he passed away at age 46. He was a member of the Illustrators Club and Salmagundi Club in New York.