Robert Griffing
Born 1940 in Linesville, Pennsylvania; lives in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania

GROWING UP IN HISTORY-RICH western Pennsylvania, Robert Griffing roamed the fields and shores of a nearby lake. Indian artifacts that he found during his wanderings led to his fascination with the region’s early history and Indian lore. Following thirty years as a commercial artist, which refined the keen sense of design and composition that prepared him for his fine art career, Griffing turned to painting the Eastern Woodland Indians of the eighteenth century who had intrigued him as a youth.

Today Griffing is known for his finely detailed and historically accurate portrayals of Native Americans living during America’s colonial period. A thorough researcher, he also gains a feeling for his subjects by using native American models from the Seneca and Ottawa nations. He has developed a strong friendship and respect that enables him to have the support from these groups. Many of whom have shown his work in their museums and cultural centers.

Notable Awards and Achievements

2018       Adopted into the Mohawk tribe, his name is Rahonwaketeh (“he carries a canoe on his back”)
2013       Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Quest for the West, Patrons’ Choice Award
2013       Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Quest for the West, Henry Farny Award for Best Painting
2009       Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Quest for the West, Artist of Distinction Award
2008       Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Quest for the West, Harrison Eiteljorg Purchase Award
2008       Autry Museum of the American West, Masters of the American West, Masters of the American West Purchase Award
2006       Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Quest for the West, Best Painting

Selected Publications
The Art of Robert Griffing, by George Irvin (East/West Visions, 2000)
The Art of Robert Griffing: His Journey Into the Eastern Frontier (Paramount Press, 2003)
The Narrative Art of Robert Griffing: The Journey Continues, by Timothy J. Todish (Paramount Press, 2007)
The Historical Art of Robert Griffing: An Amazing Journey, by Michael Galban (Paramount Press, 2017)

Gallery Representation
Settlers West Galleries, Tucson, Arizona
Lord Nelson Gallery, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania