Walter Demaris Paintings


Walter Joseph DeMaris was an American artist known for his distinctive etchings and paintings of the American West. Born on September 20, 1897, in Ashland, Ohio, he developed an early interest in art, which was nurtured through his education. DeMaris' style was influenced by his surroundings and experiences, particularly his love for the landscapes and wildlife of the West.

In pursuit of his artistic development, DeMaris attended the Cleveland School of Art, where he honed his skills and embraced the medium of etching, which would become a significant part of his artistic oeuvre. His work was characterized by detailed and realistic depictions of western scenes, from vast landscapes to the intimate moments in the lives of cowboys, Native Americans, and wildlife. DeMaris' ability to capture the spirit and essence of the West garnered him a reputation as a skilled artist of American frontier life.

After completing his education, DeMaris traveled extensively through the Western United States, which provided him with a wealth of inspiration for his work. His travels took him to states like Wyoming and Montana, places that were central to the mythos of the American frontier. The impressions he gathered from these journeys were translated into his art, which resonated with both the romanticism and the realism of the West.

DeMaris' work was not only limited to etchings; he was also proficient in watercolor and oil painting. His versatility in different mediums allowed him to explore various artistic expressions and to capture the diverse aspects of the landscape and life in the West. His commitment to his subject matter and his skill in depicting it made his work popular among art collectors and enthusiasts of Western Americana.

Walter DeMaris' career spanned several decades, during which he contributed to the legacy and preservation of the American West through his art. He captured a time and place that was rapidly changing, yet his work helped to immortalize the enduring spirit of the frontier. DeMaris passed away on August 28, 1959, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be appreciated for its artistic merit and historical significance. His etchings and paintings remain a testament to his passion for the American West and his dedication to his craft.