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.