Noted western sculptor and artist, Vic Payne has been sculpting for over 45 years. He was born in 1960 to sculptor Ken and Priscilla Payne. Moving to a ranch in New Mexico instilled in Vic the roots of the West and became central in the shaping of this sculptor’s character. His families’ ranching heritage, tales of Billy the Kid, the Lincoln County Wars, pictures of paintings and bronzes by Charlie Russell and Frederic Remington made the “Old West” come alive and inspired Vic to try his own hand at sculpting.

Vic’s distinctive style and artistic approach to sculpting along with his attention to detail is widely recognized as being imaginative and innovative, chronicling the life and era of our nation’s history.

The love of the Old West runs deep in the Payne family. Living on ranches, reading Will James and Zane Grey books, visiting museums around the country while studying Charlie Russell and Frederic Remington’s work and getting the chance to visit with John Clymer and Bill Moyer was a way of life for Ken and his son, Vic.

The desire to preserve the American West was first captured in bronze by Ken Payne who instilled in Vic a love of sculpting that Vic later passed on to his son Dustin. The three generations also share a love of flying.

Vic Payne’s bronze works capture the spirit and essence of the American West. Payne’s portfolio is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy, bringing to life scenes of Native American culture, pioneering life, and iconic Western wildlife. His sculptures often feature dynamic compositions, with figures and animals seemingly in motion, conveying a sense of narrative and emotional depth. This storytelling aspect of Payne’s work allows viewers to connect with the rich history and rugged beauty of the West, making his pieces highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

His bronzes are notable for their lifelike textures and intricate details, from the feathers and beads of traditional clothing to the sinewy muscles of the human form. Payne’s use of bronze as a medium adds a timeless quality to his work, ensuring that these cultural and historical narratives are preserved for future generations.