Raymond Wattenhofer was born in Minnesota where he grew up on a cattle operation with saddle horses. From early childhood, he developed a fascination for studying people and animals. He discovered his artistic ability to capture their characteristics in drawings first and later through paintings and sculptures.

After serving in the US Coast Guard, Raymond was honorably discharged and moved to Wyoming to learn the trade of saddle making. Highly skilled in designing and carving leather, he was hired by B-B Leather, Blackfoot, ID. While there, he made several trips to Jackson Hole, WY to tour art galleries. As a result of these visits, he was inspired to pursue a career in fine arts.

Raymond completed a two year illustrator course from Art Instructions Schools, Minneapolis. He also enrolled in art courses at Idaho State University where he studied sculpture and bronze casting. He finished his formal education with a BFA degree from Bemidji State University.  

Raymond’s art portrays the authentic character of the contemporary cowhands and their way of life on the ranch. Raymond says,“Their personalities and lifestyle provide distinct characteristics that I find captivating.”

Raymond has worked in a variety of media over the years. His most recent creations are primarily oil, egg tempera, and watercolor paintings. He has also been successful with bronze sculptures of various sizes and has had several commissions. These include (but are not limited to) several heroic and life-size commissions. Raymond has shown his comprehensive ability and talent in all he creates as an artist.

Awards:

Rough Rider International Art Exhibit - Best of Show

Rough Rider International Art Exhibit - Grand Prize Purchase Award

Rushmore Mutual Insurance - Artist of the Year

Augustana College - Best Sculpture

Commissions:

Blandin Foundation - Heroic Size Bronze Sculpture

Keenan and Clarey - Heroic Size Bronze Sculpture

St. Peter The Apostle Catholic Church - 4’ x 9.5’ Oil Painting

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church - 3/4 Life Size Bronze Crucifix

Riverside United Methodist Church - Two Heroic Size Flaming Cross

Several Private Commissions