Growing up in rural Utah, I've always been inspired by the mountains, deserts and wildlife of the American west.
After being educated as a draftsman I joined the U.S Air Force during the Vietnam era and became an illustrator/photographer. For the next 21 years I was fortunate to live in various locations around the world and have an exciting and rewarding career producing Art work for many luminaries in the military and diplomatic worlds, all the while pursuing my passion for fine art after hours.
After retiring from the military I became a full time wildlife artist and made my living selling my work on the art festival circuit and through several art galleries.
My work has been purchased and sold through the Rocky Mountain Mule Deer Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited and the American Paint Horse Foundation.
I have been featured in several publications to include Artists of the West, Southwest Art Magazine and Wildlife Artists of the World.
I am currently working in the exacting medium of colored scratchboard and am a signature member of the International Scratchboard Society and Artists for Conservation, I am also a member of the International Guild of Realism.
I recently became a Trail of Painted Pony Artist when one of my designs was selected to become a figurine in the 2024 winter lineup.
My wife Virginia and I follow the climate with residences in Star Valley, Wyoming, just south of the Tetons and our winter home in Green Valley, Arizona
Are you interested in purchasing Joe Watkins' work? Please check out Joe Watkins' art page or contact Turquoise Tortoise Gallery for more information