Jeffrey H. Craven

Born and raised at the base of the Grand Tetons, on the Idaho side, Jeffrey H. Craven enjoys a wealth of material to draw from. His growing up years of hunting and fishing instilled in him a love and deep respect for the land. Jeff later worked with cattle for three years on the Fort Hall Indian (Shoshone-Bannock) Reservation. He studied art for a time at Idaho State University, and later worked for five years as an illustrator for the United States Department of Energy. This background sets the mood for his work, but Jeff is actually a self-taught artist learning mostly by doing. His dedication over the last few years has brought him recognition and awards in major art shows. He is represented by prominent Western galleries and in collections throughout the United States; all this since he first started to develop his watercolor technique in 1973.

Jeff now resides with his wife, Nancy, and their three children in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He has been a full-time professional artist for five years. However, he has been represented by major galleries for ten years. Jeff has had numerous one-man shows throughout the west.

Much of his work reflects the lifestyle and scenery of the Snake River Basin which is indicative of the western movement heritage. Most of his work is executed in deep, rich earth colors which are appropriate to the subject matter. His paintings portray the tranquil times that still haunt the Snake River Valley of Idaho and other related areas. His envy of the Indian, the Pioneer, and the timeless land is evident in his meticulous watercolors.