"Monte Yellow Bird Sr., better known in the art world as Black Pinto Horse, is devoted to a positive expression of the harmonic balance between humanity and nature.  Through his art and teaching, he offers us a multitude of gifts, and his optimism shines in his motto: "We are on this earth for such a short time, if we're going to shine, shine brightly".  Rife with symbolism, Black Pinto Horse's visual expressions honor his spiritual roots, First Nation heritage and Modern and Contemporary art traditions through a bold use of color and design that activates the viewer's imagination.  He is motivated by a passionate desire to build connections between the past and present with a hopeful eye toward a brighter future built around empathy and understanding between diverse communities of which the nation is comprised."
                                                                                                           - Bob Durden, Paris Gibson Square Museum

At the Red Earth Indian Art Market, a father and daughter arrived to our booth.  This young gal was fixated on having "Crow Moon Pony" for her very own.  Through the help of her father, it is now in her care and we are thrilled that the art work of Black Pinto Horse, will bring this young art enthusiast smiles and happiness.

It will be a piece for her to admire as she grows through her stages of life- an early collector is a wonderful thing; more years to appreciate art and possibly may end up an artist herself.  Inspiration through innocence.

Visit "New Works" page to read
" Crow Moon Pony's" story.

An art enthusiast, historian and familiar face, J. W. Bill Wiggins is an on-going collector of Black Pinto Horse's work.  He has been collecting ledger art from across the United States and will add "Hidatsa Sunflower"(not shown)to his vast collection.

A new collector(shown to the right) that admired the wit of this particular piece titled, "Peace Treaty, explained by the artist as, "It's what us husbands do when we are in the dog house."  The wife was with at the time and laughed, saying, "I appreciate this man's humor."  A little while later, the husband was back to purchase his "Peace Treaty".

A commission piece titled, " Siksika " created specifically for this man, is very fitting, as he walks the earth, yearning to learn more about his Blackfoot heritage and growing stronger as an individual for his family in the process.  We had a pleasant visit with this beautiful family and experienced a special gift.  The artist explained each image, "The Cotton Wood leaves and their change of color represent the change and growth that comes with this new learned knowledge of your people...."

16th Annual Holter Art Auction Gala
June 19, 5:00-9:30 p.m. at the Great Northern Best Western Hotel, Helena MT

Monte and Emily Yellow Bird, 2 of the 80 featured artists in the auction.

http://www.holtermuseum.org/auction.html

Please visit the "Educational Programs" page to see past projects and details of Monte and Emily Yellow Bird's services.

"Congratulations!

We are pleased to inform you that you have been nominated for our Human Resources "Good Apple" award by Jane Gregoire, Principle at North Middle School.  This award has long been associated with education.  In our field, receiving an apple is an expression of appreciation and esteem!  The presentation of the enclosed pin is appropriate in light of their letter, which reads in part:

Black Pinto Horse advocating for After school programs at the Capitol, Helena MT, February 16, 2009.  His main topic of discussion, "How to create a healthy space for children to experience learning outside of the classroom". 

In December, Mr. Yellow Bird brought his magic to our school.  As a guest teacher in Mr. Odden's art classes, he captivated students with his artistic inspiration, expertise and with his ability to connect with kids.  Mr. Yellow Bird is an accomplished artist, but he is certainly so much more. 

He has a natural empathy and communication with young people, "talking" to them through art and storytelling.  He teaches personal responsibility, coping skills and hope.  He understands kids' struggles and difficult home lives, and energizes them with encouragement and belief they can rise above their struggles.  His quiet voice, even cadence and skilled hands work as surely as his artwork does to inspire and focus students.

Please except this award as a token of our sincere appreciation....."    -Tammy Lacy, Human Resource Director

Award winning works at the Great Falls Indian Art Show , Great Falls MT

"Last Look before the Great Fall"
19.5" x 25"(dimensions of outside frame)
Colored pencil and pen and ink on Capital Stock Bond, 1899 cir., and beaded lodges

"Last Look before the Great Fall", was created on this rare antiqued $5,000,000 Capital Stock bond 1890 Cir. and signed by the founder of Great Falls MT, Paris Gibson.

To see this rare document up close and new ledger works, go to "Winter Counts/Ledger Art" page.