The art world has been profoundly touched by the passing of Norma Howard (1958-2024), a beloved figure whose work graced the walls of Blue Rain Gallery for three decades. As we come to terms with this great loss, we find solace in celebrating the extraordinary life and art of Norma, whose contributions to Blue Rain Gallery, the Santa Fe Indian Market, and far beyond have left an indelible mark that will be celebrated for generations.
Norma's journey as a self-taught watercolorist began in the serene landscape of rural Oklahoma, where she was surrounded by the rich traditions and stories of her Choctaw and Chickasaw heritage. Despite hardships she faced in her early life, Norma’s art practice emerged as both an unwavering passion and a powerful reflection of her enduring connection to her roots. Her work vividly captured the essence of everyday moments and family stories, imbuing each piece with the resilience and cultural pride that defined her upbringing.
Her trademark watercolor technique, reminiscent of the Impressionist pointillism yet wholly self-developed, involved layering countless tiny brush strokes, a method Norma called “basket-weave” strokes. This style infused her paintings with remarkable depth, enabling each piece to convey a rich spectrum of color, texture, and emotion. Norma’s dedication to detail was not merely a stylistic choice but a tribute to her family and forebears.
“People tell me it's the details that draw them into my paintings and capture their feelings. My inspiration will always be to tell my ancestors' story and honor the way they lived.”
For years, Norma's artwork has been a treasured staple at the Santa Fe Indian Market, where she earned accolades and admiration for her ability to bring history and culture to life. Her paintings offer viewers a window into the past, depicting scenes of everyday life with a richness that is intimate, reverential, and expansive. Whether portraying Choctaw women working in cotton and corn fields, groups of children partaking in traditional dances, or a grandmother and grandson gently gliding through a serene bayou in their canoe, her work masterfully captured the timeless essence of her home and heritage.
“It’s rare I do a painting without people in it. You can do a really beautiful scenery, but to me, if there aren’t any people, there’s no life.”
In a heartfelt tribute to her life, Blue Rain Gallery is honored to present a special exhibition of Norma Howard’s private collection during the 2024 Santa Fe Indian Market. These works, consigned by Norma’s family and available for purchase, are not only captivating art pieces but chapters of a lifelong narrative Norma passionately told through her brush. The showcase offers a final opportunity for collectors and admirers to engage with Norma Howard’s legacy and share in the beauty and history Norma dedicated her life to preserving.
As we reflect on Norma Howard’s incredible journey, we are reminded of the power of art to bridge generations and cultures. Her paintings continue to speak to us, offering insights into a way of life that she held dear and shared so generously. Her spirit, woven into every stroke of her brush, will forever remain a part of the fabric of our gallery, our community, and our hearts.
We extend our deepest condolences to Norma’s family and loved ones. Her presence will be profoundly missed, while her legacy will live on through her art, inspiring future generations to cherish the fleeting moments of life and the stories that define us.
