D.G. Smalling

D.G. Smalling is an American artist recognized for his contributions to Native American contemporary art. He is best known for his unique one-line drawing technique,

Early life Smalling grew up in a small rural community in Oklahoma.

Education Following his graduation from high school in South Africa, Smalling returned to Oklahoma to attend the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a degree in political science. emphasizes precision and intentionality in his art. He avoids dark, cynical, or macabre themes, focusing instead on aspirational ideals and virtues.People have forgotten to celebrate that which is beautiful, simple, and innocent. Beauty matters. The job of an artist is to inspire and that's what I want to do.

Notable Works and Commissions Smalling has been commissioned for numerous notable portraits, including former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair, former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, former Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Yvonne Kauger, business magnate and philanthropist T. Boone Pickens, and Dallas Cowboys and University of Oklahoma football coach Barry Switzer.

Smalling has also been commissioned for major public art projects and corporate collaborations. Recently, he has collaborated with APMEX for the Asian Zodiac Series: Year of the Dragon, FanDuel for a National Native American Hall of Fame project, Emser Tile for their Native Narratives Series and Incredible Technologies for Ultra Rush Gold, as well as the Delaware Nation of Oklahoma.

Exhibitions Smalling has exhibited internationally, with notable exhibitions including Operation Lady Justice: The Visage of Modern Matriarchy at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Ikbi: Choctaw and Chickasaw Southeastern Cultural Art at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Salon du Dessin et da la Peinture à l’Eau at the Grand Palais in Paris, and the State of Oklahoma Centennial Show at Disney World's Epcot.

Awards and Recognitions Smalling's work has garnered recognition for its unique style and cultural significance. He was selected as a Choctaw Nation Master Artist and has been involved in various cultural projects that highlight Native American heritage and contributions to contemporary art.