Johnny Tiger Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Johnny Tiger Jr.
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| Born |
Johnny Moore Tiger Jr.
February 13, 1940 Tahlequah, Oklahoma, U.S.
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| Died | August 5, 2015 (aged 75) |
| Nationality | Muscogee (Creek) Nation-Seminole Nation of Oklahoma |
| Known for | painting, sculpture |
| Movement | Bacone style |
| Awards | Master Artist, Five Civilized Tribes Museum (1982) |
Johnny Moore Tiger Jr. was a talented Native American artist from Oklahoma. He was a member of the Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole tribes. Born on February 13, 1940, he created beautiful paintings and sculptures until his passing on August 5, 2015.
Contents
Early Life and Family Connections
Johnny Moore Tiger Jr. was born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, on February 13, 1940. His parents were Lucinda Lou Lewis and John M. Tiger. Johnny's younger brother, Jerome Tiger, also became a very famous artist.
As a child, Johnny often traveled with his grandfather, Rev. Coleman Lewis. His grandfather was a well-known Baptist missionary in the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. During their travels, Coleman taught Johnny about their people's history and beliefs. He shared these stories in the Mvskoke language, which is their tribal language. Johnny Tiger Jr. was also the uncle of another artist, Dana Tiger.
Johnny attended Chilocco Indian School. He later graduated from Muskogee Central High School in 1958. After finishing school, he served in the United States Air Force.
Johnny Tiger Jr.'s Art Career
When he was young, Johnny Tiger Jr. enjoyed painting cool designs on hot rod cars. But he soon became interested in fine art. His paintings often showed the oral history of his tribes. He painted scenes like tribal gatherings or stomp dances. He also painted medicine men healing the sick. These paintings were based on his own experiences and the stories he heard.
In 1959, Johnny went to Bacone College in Muskogee, Oklahoma. There, he studied art under the famous Southern Cheyenne painter Dick West. His classmates included other talented artists like David E. Williams and Joan Hill. By the late 1970s, Johnny had won many important art awards. This allowed him to become a full-time artist. The Five Civilized Tribes Museum recognized Johnny as a Master Artist in 1982.
Besides painting, Johnny Tiger Jr. was also a well-known sculptor. He created several bronze sculptures and received many major awards for his work.
Later Years and Legacy
Johnny Tiger Jr. passed away on August 5, 2015. His funeral services were held at the First Baptist Church in Eufaula, Oklahoma. He was buried at the Greenwood Cemetery in Eufaula. His art continues to tell the stories and traditions of his people.
See also
