Charles Russell Museum
Charles M. Russell's deep admiration for the Northern Plains Indians stemmed from his immersive experience during the summer of 1888. Living in close proximity to the camps of the Blackfeet, Piegan, and Blood Indians in Alberta, Canada, Russell closely observed their ways, leaving an indelible mark on him for the remainder of his life. His artwork reflects this profound influence, capturing the daily life of both the range cowboy and the Plains Indian, as well as the vast landscapes of the Montana wilderness. Through his paintings, Russell provides a window into the closing days of the western frontier, drawing from his personal experiences and observations.
The C.M. Russell Museum stands as a testament to Russell's enduring legacy, housing one of the nation's most extensive collections of his paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Spanning from his boyhood creations to his final works, the museum's five permanent galleries showcase Russell's remarkable evolution as an artist, from humble beginnings to mastery of multiple media. Additionally, the museum boasts an exceptional collection of Russell's illustrated letters, offering insights into his travels, observations, and relationships.
Russell's former home, a charming blue, two-story frame house constructed in 1900 for $800, is preserved within the museum grounds. Furnished with period pieces and items from the Russell family, the house provides a glimpse into the artist's personal life. Adjacent to the home stands Russell's log studio, erected in 1903 from western red cedar telephone poles. Filled with authentic cowboy gear and Native American artifacts collected and utilized by Russell in his artistic endeavors, the studio offers a deeper understanding of his creative process.
Beyond Russell's extensive collections, the museum features a groundbreaking permanent exhibition exploring the pivotal role of the bison in the cultural life of the Northern Plains from 1800 to the present. Titled "The Bison: American Icon, Heart of Plains Indian Culture," this exhibition showcases Northern Plains Indian clothing, regalia, tools, and weapons, alongside contemporary interpretations of the bison as a pervasive symbol in American culture.
Charles M. Russell's deep admiration for the Northern Plains Indians stemmed from his immersive experience during the summer of 1888. Living in close proximity to the camps of the Blackfeet, Piegan, and Blood Indians in Alberta, Canada, Russell closely observed their ways, leaving an indelible mark on him for the remainder of his life. His artwork reflects this profound influence, capturing the daily life of both the range cowboy and the Plains Indian, as well as the vast landscapes of the Montana wilderness. Through his paintings, Russell provides a window into the closing days of the western frontier, drawing from his personal experiences and observations.
The C.M. Russell Museum stands as a testament to Russell's enduring legacy, housing one of the nation's most extensive collections of his paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Spanning from his boyhood creations to his final works, the museum's five permanent galleries showcase Russell's remarkable evolution as an artist, from humble beginnings to mastery of multiple media. Additionally, the museum boasts an exceptional collection of Russell's illustrated letters, offering insights into his travels, observations, and relationships.
Russell's former home, a charming blue, two-story frame house constructed in 1900 for $800, is preserved within the museum grounds. Furnished with period pieces and items from the Russell family, the house provides a glimpse into the artist's personal life. Adjacent to the home stands Russell's log studio, erected in 1903 from western red cedar telephone poles. Filled with authentic cowboy gear and Native American artifacts collected and utilized by Russell in his artistic endeavors, the studio offers a deeper understanding of his creative process.
Beyond Russell's extensive collections, the museum features a groundbreaking permanent exhibition exploring the pivotal role of the bison in the cultural life of the Northern Plains from 1800 to the present. Titled "The Bison: American Icon, Heart of Plains Indian Culture," this exhibition showcases Northern Plains Indian clothing, regalia, tools, and weapons, alongside contemporary interpretations of the bison as a pervasive symbol in American culture.
