History on Canvas: Bob Snead

Buffalo Soldiers Revisited

November 11, 2022 - April 15, 2023

George Robert ‘Bob’ Snead was a modern-day renaissance man. Snead was a highly decorated war hero, accomplished artist, stage actor, entrepreneur, and a noted historian. LMFA is honored to share Bob Snead’s work in History on Canvas - Buffalo Soldier Revisited. While serving over 30 years as a pilot in the U.S. Army, Snead began painting and sketching what would later become his most notable art subject, the Buffalo Soldiers. Snead was fascinated by the all-black 9th and 10th Calvary of the U.S. Army, respectfully dubbed the Buffalo Soldiers by the Native Americans, due to their dark curly hair and fierce strength in battle which resembled the Indian’s sacred buffalo.

The Buffalo Soldiers were crucial in supporting the nation's westward expansion, protection of frontier settlers, building roads and infrastructures military campaigns during the decades-long Indian Wars.

Realizing that this influential part of the African American’s contribution to American history was not well known, Snead began to paint the picture of the Buffalo Soldier’s history, quite literally to share with others. Snead's interest and research led to the development of his influential body of work, entitled "100 Years Ago: The Buffalo Soldier Revisited." The then 167-piece collection toured the world several times over with numerous original pieces from the exhibit now hanging in private collections throughout the country and in the Texas Governor’s Mansion. Each subject captured in Snead’s paintings or sketches was meticulously researched for accuracy and understanding. Thus, each landscape, event and individual portrayed are brought to life by Snead’s hand through expressions and brushstrokes on canvas. Come experience for yourself the history of the Buffalo Soldier up-close and learn more about the impassioned and talented artist Bob Snead on exhibition now through April 15, 2023.