Rance Hood (1941 - )
Rance Hood was born in southern Oklahoma to a Comanche mother and white father. Most of his early youth was spent with his Comanche grandparents who taught him in the traditional ways, including their native language. When he was finally forced to attend elementary school, he was unable to speak English. Hood’s paintings are presented in a mystical landscape that is not of this world but a world distinguished by heroic deeds and ancestral spirits. His paintings feature warriors on horseback galloping so energetically that their hooves never touch the ground. His art flows with the expression of energy, magic, life, and authentic freedom. Strong composition, use of line, and the explosive use of color are all characteristic of Indian art. Hood’s themes are mystical and spiritual, developing his work through the customs and religious practices which were passed down to him. The paintings of Rance Hood are viewed as an extension of the theatrical adaptation of original Plains painting.
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