Robert DeWeese

Robert Kennel DeWeese (1920–1990) was a Modernist artist in Montana who taught art at Montana State University and produced his own works with a focus in painting and printmaking.

Early life and education Bob DeWeese was born on December 23, 1920, to Robert William DeWeese and Lona Kennel in Troy, Ohio. He grew up in Ohio and graduated from Troy High School in 1938.

Bob earned his Bachelor of Science degree in art from Ohio State University in 1942 after studying with Hoyt Sherman. In 1948, Bob received his Master of Fine Art degree from the University of Iowa, During his time as a professor, he served as the chairman of exhibitions for the MSC arts department in the 1960s. He also opened a studio on Main Street, where he and his wife Gennie produced and exhibited art as well as hosting theater performances.

Art style In general, Bob DeWeese was a Modernist artist.

In Bozeman, the DeWeeses initially lived in a small white brick house on Church Street and Bob rented a studio on Main Street. The house and studio became a meeting place for the Montana art and intellectual community,

Awards and recognition Bob and Gennie DeWeese received the Montana Governor’s Award for the Arts in 1995. In addition, the Robert and Gennie DeWeese Art Gallery at Bozeman High School was named after the couple.

Later years Bob DeWeese died on November 20, 1990, from bone marrow disease in Billings. He continued making art up until his death.