Nocona Burgess presents strikingly modern depictions of Indigenous men and women from tribal Nations of North America. Painting with vibrant pigments onto dark backgrounds, Burgess has perfected a method he describes as “painting outward.” This approach produces the richly contrasting colors of his canvases and gives his art a vivid depth. As a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, the son of a former tribal chief, and the great-great-grandson of one of the most revered Native American leaders, Chief Quanah Parker, Burgess’ paintings mix research, firsthand knowledge, and passion.

Combining brightly colored shapes with crisply outlined facial features and traditional dress, Burgess explores the cultural context, life story, and identity of each sitter. He urges us to update our perceptions of Native people and consider the intriguing and often politicized place of Native American portraiture. Burgess strives for an intimate connection with each subject, eager to know their characters. Through his paintings, he thanks his ancestors for their sacrifices in helping to make Native identity what it is today. Burgess’ paintings inspire and educate through their unusual techniques and positive dialogues between past and present.

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