R. F. Rains

R. F. Rains, the creator of the Dan Mortensen bronze sculpture at MetraPark in Billings, Montana, was one of the best known and most respected western artists of his day. The life-like quality of his bronze sculptures, and his attention to detail brought him critical acclaim nation-wide. He created artwork that had emotional content and was true to the spirit of the West. Ron was a master craftsman who combined the knowledge of “the way things were” with pride in his Western heritage.
1942-2003
Born in Forsyth, Montana, Ron spent his early years on ranches, listening to tales told by old cowboys and observing people and animals. He spent many hours with a sketchbook and a pencil, practicing his art. His early memories and experiences came alive in his bronzes.

Ron worked in an old log cabin studio built in the 1850’s in Park City, Montana. It was one of the first buildings in the area and was a place of inspiration. Heat was supplied by an old pot-bellied stove, there was no running water, and the interior literally oozed history. Elk and deer hides covered the walls, and a buffalo head stared down from one corner. Vintage pictures, guns, and saddles from a by-gone era were displayed everywhere. It was the perfect setting for an artist who loved the West.

Ron passed away just six months after the October 2002 unveiling of the Mortensen bronze. He will be remembered primarily as a great western artist. His wife Sandy, son Tyler, daughter Misty Lynn, granddaughter Bailey Ann, extended family and friends will simply remember him as a wonderful person. He touched many lives, never judged anyone, and had a witty sense of humor that everyone enjoyed.

Two of Ron’s sculptures reside in the PRCA Cowboy Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His bronze of Mortensen is a fitting and lasting legacy of the artist as it was his last major work before his death. He spent many years working on the 18', awe-inspiring bronze sculpture. It is a wonderful reminder of the talented and exceptional artist that he was. (Ron is pictured here with Dan Mortensen, the subject of his bronze.)

More of Ron's life-sized bronze sculptures can be viewed at the "Caboose" in Laurel, Montana.