Sammy Watson

Sammy Watson (1940 – Present)

Renowned throughout Southeastern Oklahoma, Sammy is a master of portraiture, animal studies, and wildlife art, often drawing from the people and animals of his rural surroundings. His work prominently features agricultural themes.

Sammy’s artistic journey began with formal training at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton and Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education. He further refined his craft through three years of study in Commercial Art with Famous Artist School, where he was mentored by the Great Norman Rockwell.

Over the past 38 years, Sammy has received numerous awards across Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana. He has been named Portrait Hall of Fame Artist at Eastern Oklahoma State College an impressive 18 times. His prolific career includes more than 3,000 completed works, many of which have been sold across the U.S. and internationally. Additionally, he has illustrated two books and created cover artwork for two others.

His dedication to art education spans more than five decades, as he has taught in both public and private schools for 51 years.

His works include the styles of pointillism and hyperrealism. Inspired by masters Norman Rockwell, Andrew Loomis, Frank Covino, Rembrandt, and Da Vinci.

Sammy believes his talent is both a gift from God and the result of a lifetime of hard work. Deeply committed to continuous learning and growth, he believes his journey as an artist is never complete—only ever evolving.