fbpx
facebook app symbol  twitter  linkedin  instagram 1
 

Chickasaw artist Billy Hensley opened a solo art premiere at the Rainmaker Gallery in Bristol, United Kingdom on September 21 and runs until October 21. The exhibition features 12 pieces of his art.

Hensley’s brand of mixing abstract paintings with a touch of realism has appealed to art lovers and judges for more than a decade.

The debut in the United Kingdom marks the first solo showing of his highly acclaimed work at a venue outside the United States. The Rainmaker Gallery, located about three hours west of London, is the only First American art gallery in England. 

Hensley’s work caught the attention of the Rainmaker Gallery’s owner Joann Prince when she saw his art at the Indian Art Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico six years ago.

Chickasaw artist Billy Hensley

“I met the gallery’s owner about six years ago when I was attending the Indian Market in Santa Fe,” the 45-year-old master artist explained. “Joann Prince was interested in my work, and I have shown a few paintings at her gallery, but this is my first solo premiere.”

“We are so fortunate to have Joann and Rainmaker Gallery request a solo premiere,” Hensley said. “To have this occur from a chance encounter six years ago is exciting.”

Meanwhile back in the United States, Hensley will have a booth with his art at the Southeastern Art Show and Market (SEASAM) in Tishomingo, Oklahoma on October 6 - 7, 2023.

His SEASAM display will include artistic works not normally associated with his previous offerings. Hensley is highlighting his broadening interest in crafting jewelry and beading. Pendants featuring leather, beading and alligator garfish hide will be on tap for patrons visiting SEASAM

More Stories Like This

Q&A: Kevin Sur (Kānaka Maoli), Co-Host of KEXP’s ‘Sounds of Survivance'
Vail, Colorado, Pulls Native American Artist and Residency, Artist Shocked
Here's What's Going in Indian Country, May 10th — May 16th
Shinnecock Language Media Exhibit Opens in East Hampton Next Month
Q&A: Cree Métis and Two-Spirit Artist and Fashion Designer Jason Baerg

These stories must be heard.

This May, we are highlighting our coverage of Indian boarding schools and their generational impact on Native families and Native communities. Giving survivors of boarding schools and their descendants the opportunity to share their stories is an important step toward healing — not just because they are speaking, but because they are being heard. Their stories must be heard. Help our efforts to make sure Native stories and Native voices are heard in 2024. Please consider a recurring donation to help fund our ongoing coverage of Indian boarding schools. Donate to Native News Online today and support independent Indigenous-centered journalism. Thank you.

About The Author
Native News Online Staff
Author: Native News Online StaffEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at [email protected].