Vern Erickson first became interested in painting when he was exposed to work by western artist Charles Russell while growing up in rural, small-town Esmond, North Dakota.

He has been a freelance artist since 1979 and has previously worked as an artist and photographer for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

For over four decades, Erickson has been bringing the history of the Upper Missouri region to life through an uncanny vision and a seemingly “magical paintbrush.”

Erickson’s artistic foundation has always been about sharing his art with people and creating educational opportunities.

Erickson currently resides in Bismarck, North Dakota.

In October 2022, Vern Erickson was named an ICON artist of The Capital Gallery for his longevity as an artist, the quality of his work, his contributions to the Gallery, and his far-reaching impact on the

world of art.