Norris M. Chee has come a long way since his first pencil drawings in second-grade. The talented artist now travels extensively across the United States, entering art shows, winning awards and living his dreams of painting.

Norris M. Chee

Born on the reservation near Mexican Hat, Utah, Norris M. Chee’s heritage is rich in the Dineh culture. Born into the Edgewater Clan, which is related to the Manygoats Clan, Chee was raised in a very traditional Dineh home.

School was a new experience for Norris and it was there that he first learned to speak English. It was also in his early years of school that Chee discovered what would become a life-long passion for art. From his first pencil drawing on a second-grade school desk, Chee knew he wanted art to be a part of his life.

In 1979, his graduation from high school brought with it the responsibility for a steady income. Chee took a non-related art job, but he never gave up on his dream of becoming an artist.

In 1989, with his family and home life stable, Chee picked up the brushes and again began to pursue his dream of painting. That same year, Chee entered his first juried show and was accepted. The accomplishment of being accepted spurred the budding artist to continue, and the next show he entered earned him the prestigious “Best of Show” award.

The importance of painting began to take priority in Chee’s life and working another job became quite difficult. In 1993, after winning a ribbon at a nationally recognized show, the vision was clear – painting needed to be his full-time career.

Today, Chee travels extensively across the United States, entering art shows, winning awards and living his dreams of painting. Although he paints for shows, Chee has never lost sight of the importance of education. To this end, he works as an Artist in Residence for the state of Nebraska. In this role, Chee often visits schools and communities, where he teaches students about his artistic talents, methods and the customs of his tribe.

From his first vision of a pencil drawing on a desk, to nationally recognized awards, Chee has pursued his passion and is continuing to live his life-long dream of painting.