Joe Ruiz Grandee (1929-1979)

   The artist was born as a third generation Texan in Dallas in 1929. He studied at the Aunspaugh Art School in Dallas during 1947. From 1965 to 1991, he was active as a sculptor, illustrator, and painter of portraits, military scenes, and the history of the West. He has been cited for historically accurate depictions of the Dragoons and Cavalrymen of the US Army. In 1974, he was honored with a one man retrospective in the US Capitol. Additionally, he served for one year as the "Official State Artist of Texas" - an appointment by the Texas Legislature. His work has been exhibited by the White House, Lyndon Baines Johnson Collection [Austin],the Harmsen Collection of Western Art [Denver], and the National Cowboy Hall of Fame [Oklahoma City]. His original works are rare and valuable.