Donald Vann is a full blood Cherokee artist and veteran. He is well known for painting detailed landscapes with Native American subjects. He did not have a privileged childhood and could not afford to purchase art supplies. Instead of giving up, he melted crayons and made his own paintbrushes. His maternal grandfather, a holy man, inspired him with knowledge of the spiritual world and medicines. His paternal grandfather inspired him with a love of hunting and mountains. Vann’s early artwork was heavily influenced by his teacher Jerome Tiger.
Vann’s artwork consists of very detailed landscapes, Cherokee heritage, southern plains, Native Americans, animal imagery and ethereal skies. He has many pieces with horses, wolves, white buffaloes, and Native American Indians in daily life. He utilizes the airbrush for smooth, soft lines and colors. His pieces take the viewer to a place and time full of emotion.
Donald Vann was honored with the top award for watercolor painting by the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of the American Indian. He has won first place ribbons in competitions such as Colorado Indian Market, National American Indian Arts Exposition and Oklahoma’s Red Earth Exhibit. His work is included in the permanent collection of the Philbrook Museum in Tulsa, Ok.
Currently, Donald Vann has retired. His surplus of artwork and prints have been destroyed and is completely sold out on his website.