Charles Bear is a celebrated contemporary Western artist whose distinctive watercolor, oil, and ink-based works have been praised by art enthusiasts worldwide. Inspired by books about the West and its Indigenous people, Charles began to draw what he read at an early age. Encouraged by his mother, Bear has been a professional artist for nearly 50 years, and an active participant in the C.M. Russell Art Show for over four decades. The love he has for the Northern Plains tribes, circa 1850, is reflected through the imagery he paints.  

Bear became a resident of Virginia City, Montana while traveling through town on his motorcycle over 35 years ago. He had a chance meeting with Virginia City conservator Charles Bovey and was told he “fit right in,” and was offered a place to live. Charles remains a local fixture in Virginia City, where he continues to paint and showcase his skills as a Western painter and as one of the best contemporary artists in the genre.

Bear’s current show at Stephano’s Fine Art Gallery in Virginia City is on display until mid-October. His work can also be found at Gallery 287 in Ennis, Montana, and online at charlesbeargallery.com.