06/25/2022
With a heavy heart we are sharing the news of our dear friend, Richard Aitson (Kiowa / Apache), passing this afternoon. For those of you who didn't have the honor of knowing him, he is the preeminent authority on Kiowa beadwork and the carrier of the torch for the traditional bead working skill and art form which was nearly lost. Rich's exquisite pieces are part of several important permanent museum collections, including the Smithsonian.
Here is the biography for Richard authored by our founder, Ken Lingad, in 2007 when he professionally represented the legendary fine artist:
"The preeminent Kiowa Beadwork artist, Richard Aitson’s moccasins, Native dance regalia, toy cradles, and other beaded art works are highly sought-after by authentic Indian dancers, ceremonial headsmen and tribal elders, and fine art collectors, alike.
Hailing from a prestigious line of noteworthy beadworkers – five generations of such – Aitson is a self-described “contemporary-traditional” artist who continues to expand and improve his chosen medium and genre, ever-seeking better beads and materials than previously available. His beaded art works have earned significant recognition and top awards at the nation’s top venues for collectible Native art, including the Autry National Center’s Southwest Museum of the American Indian; Heard Museum Indian Fair & Market; Santa Fe Indian Market, and the Eiteljorg Museum.
A recognized scholar and authority on Oklahoma Native art, Aitson continues to pursue an active career as both artist and educator..."
Blessings on your new journey, Brother. Your wit, beautiful works of art, and intellectual rigor will be missed by many.
This picture of Rich is featured in the groundbreaking book titled, "Contemporary Native American Artists."
Indian Country Today Indianz.Com Native News Online Native American Times SWAIA - Santa Fe Indian Market Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian Oberlin College
