Controversial and prolific, Fritz Scholder (1937-2005) embraced paradox. An enrolled member of the Luiseno tribe, he often said he was not Indian. Scholder’s works were immediately recognized for their insight and powerful commentary on publicly held stereotypes of Native Americans and propelled Scholder into a position of prominence as an artist.
His revolutionary paintings broke away from stereotypical roles and forever changed the concept of “Indian artist”.
Scholder’s constant desire to explore, collect, travel and experience is undoubtedly the distinguishing feature of both his life and his art. Scholder is best known for his expressionist paintings that are in museum collections around the world. His style is well known for its distortions, explosive brushwork and vivid colors. His series of works explore the themes of Indians, ancient Egypt, mystery women and flowers.
