Willie Preacher, Indian Artist
33 W. Bridge Street
Blackfoot, Idaho
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About the Artist
Born in Blackfoot, Idaho, Willie Preacher is a member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. He grew up "down bottoms" and began his life of art in the fourth grade when he heard the story of "Hiawatha" and drew a picture of a bobcat. He recognized his own talent right away.
During his Junior year in high school, Willie met another talented artist, Gloria Dillard. Gloria encouraged Willie to produce some work for his first art show. Gloria's husband Herm matted and framed the 17 year old's work. Willie and Gloria showed their work together in May 1969.
Willie continued to create pen and ink drawings while continuing his education at University of Idaho in Moscow. In 1973 Willie took a break from his college life to work at the Atomic Energy Commission (now know as the Idaho National Laboratory), known locally as "The Site". His plan was to work there just so he could save enough money to buy a car.
Willie worked at the site until May 2002 when the managing and operating contractor of the site laid him off. That same day he found a job with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes as an environmentalist for the Tribes. In 2003 he was appointed the director of the Tribal DOE program where he continues to work.
During the last 40 years, Willie and Gloria have continued to show their work together. Willie added other mediums to his artistry including pencils, watercolors, and most notably original oil paintings.
Willie opened his own art gallery in September of 2006 in downtown Blackfoot which is open most evenings or by appointment. Willie shared his gallery in June 2009 to honor his mentor's talents. Gloria Dillard showed her memories of Idaho in watercolors just months before her 88th birthday.
williepreacherart@cableone.net
Willie Preacher holding an original oil painting of "Sacagawea returning to her brother's people." This painting was commissioned for the U.S.N.S. Sacagawea.
