Biography

Howard Norton Cook was an American artist born in 1901, known for his significant contributions to the field of wood engraving and mural painting. He spent much of his early career in Europe before settling in Taos, New Mexico, a place that greatly influenced his artistic output. Cook's work is characterized by its detailed and expressive style, often capturing the essence of American life and landscapes. He was commissioned by The Forum in 1926 to create woodcuts for the serial publication of 'Death Comes for the Archbishop', which marked his initial connection to Taos. Cook's career was marked by his involvement in New Deal art projects, where he created murals for public buildings, including courthouses in Pittsburgh and Springfield, Massachusetts. One of his notable works is a 16-panel fresco in a San Antonio post office, illustrating the importance of the city in Texas history. During World War II, Cook led an art unit in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater, producing works that documented the experiences of soldiers, which were later exhibited in 'The Army at War: A Graphic Record by American Artists'. In his later years, Cook became the first artist-in-residence at the Roswell Museum and Art Center, cementing his legacy in New Mexico's art scene. He passed away in 1980, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its historical and artistic significance.