ABOUT VIC PAYNE
“The American West is more than a backdrop for my sculptures; it is a lifeblood of my art. Growing up on a ranch in New Mexico, I was immersed in the tales, the Code of the West, and landscapes that define the ‘Old West.’ These unwritten rules, centered around values like integrity, hard work, self-reliance, loyalty, and respect, shaped my character and ignited my passion to create sculptures that embody the pioneering spirit of this storied land.
I hold the West close to my heart, and each piece I create, whether it portrays wildlife, Native American, or Western themes, is a heartfelt endeavor to connect viewers with our rich history. My goal is to build a bridge between the past and present, honoring the enduring spirit of the West and the ancestors who shaped it.” ~ Vic Payne
Vic Payne, a dedicated western sculptor and artist, has been sculpting for over 45 years. Born in 1960 to sculptor Ken Payne and Priscilla Payne, Vic’s early move to a ranch in New Mexico deeply rooted him in the spirit of the West, shaping his character and artistic vision. His family’s ranching heritage, along with tales of Billy the Kid, the Lincoln County Wars, and the works of Charlie Russell and Frederic Remington, brought the “Old West” to life and inspired Vic to pursue sculpting.
Vic’s works are celebrated for their distinctive style and meticulous attention to detail, showcasing an imaginative and innovative portrayal of our nation’s history. His sculptures, ranging from small pieces to monumental bronzes, aim to lead viewers on an emotional journey, telling stories through his art. Whether depicting wildlife, Native American, or Western themes, Vic’s passion lies in capturing the pioneering, independent, and mystical spirit of the West. He strives to connect viewers with the past, fostering a deeper understanding of our country’s history and the ancestors who shaped it.
Influence by master teachers such as Bruno Lucchesi, Lincoln Fox, Fritz White, and the legendary European Master Michelangelo, Vic’s work reflects a blend of historical reverence and artistic excellence. His creative process involves extensive research and immersion in the subject matter, allowing him to capture the essence and spirit of the West in every piece. This dedication has positioned him as a leading sculptor not only of the American West but also of his generation.
In 1991, as demand for his work grew, Vic opened his first gallery, Santa Fe Trails Fine Art. Together with his father, Ken Payne, they pioneered the innovative concept of selling bronze sculptures through clay works-in-progress, a practice now widely adopted in the Southwest Art Community.
Over the past 25 years, Vic has been commissioned to create numerous monumental bronze sculptures for corporations, municipalities, universities, and private collectors. Notably, he crafted the dynamic “Spirit of the Mustang” sculpture for Midwestern State University, featuring four 1 1/3rd life-size horses in a naturalistic water feature, each representing a different class rank and symbolizing the fluid nature of the educational journey. His monumental works for Cabela’s stores in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Texas, Illinois, and Louisiana further showcase his talent. Vic’s sculptures are collected worldwide and featured in prestigious collections such as The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, the Raymond James Financial Institute Collection, the Booth Western Art Museum, and The Pearce Civil War & Western Museum. His commissions for universities, including significant work for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, solidify his reputation as a leading sculptor of the American West.
Vic, his wife Angie Maria, and their family now make their home in the Cody/Meeteetse area of Wyoming, home of the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. The historic Meeteetse Mercantile building, housing Vic’s sculpting studio and gallery, adds to the area’s charm and inspiration. The deep historical roots of Cody and Meeteetse, coupled with the breathtaking landscapes and majestic mountains, provide endless inspiration for Vic’s work. His profound love for the history and culture of the American West is evident in every piece he creates, making his art a bridge between the past and present, and a tribute to the enduring spirit of the West he cherishes.
