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Question: Frank Howell Biography
Answer: A Spiritual Continuum
Frank Howell (1937–1997) was a Sioux City native whose "no-smoke" career was defined by a deep spiritual connection to his Lakota Sioux heritage. After serving in the Marines and studying at the University of Northern Iowa, Howell taught art for over a decade before moving to New Mexico and Colorado to commit to his vision full-time. His style—a fusion of traditional Native American imagery and contemporary abstraction—is characterized by "lyrical interpretations" where figures dissolve into clouds, feathers, and horizons. He was a polymath who excelled in painting, photography, and writing, and he even developed an early art computer program. His goal was never just to capture an external likeness, but to create a "mirror that reflects the inner you." Today, his work is held in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in Guadalajara, Mexico.
At Herndon Fine Art, we have been a primary source for Frank Howell for 40 years. Our collection is a vetted selection of Vetted Consignments (RH code) and Vetted Dealer Networks, with a particular focus on his rare Hand-Colored Lithographs and Monotypes. Because Howell’s work relies on "delicate washes and crayon textures," our vetting process ensures that the subtle value gradations have not been lost to light exposure or poor storage. We stand behind every signature with our A+ BBB commitment. |
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Question: What is a "Hand-Colored (HC)" Lithograph?
Answer: Unlike standard prints, Howell would often return to a lithographic proof and hand-apply color using colored pencils, acrylics, or gouache. This makes each "HC" piece unique within the edition. At Herndon Fine Art, we verify these hand-applied elements in your database to ensure your collectors understand they are acquiring a work with the artist's direct "final touch." |
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Question: Why are his Monotypes so highly sought after?
Answer: A monotype is a one-of-a-kind print. Howell would paint directly onto a plate and pull a single impression. His market remains among the strongest for Southwest Art; while major oils like Red Feathers in a Salmon Sky have realized $24,000, his hand-signed monotypes like Desert Spring consistently command premium prices in the 2025–2026 auction cycle. |
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Question: What does "State II" or "State III" signify?
Answer: In Howell's printmaking, a "State" refers to a version of the image where the artist made a significant change to the plate or stone between printings. We use our 40 years of experience to identify these states in your database, as certain states (often the more limited, hand-colored ones) carry higher collector value. |
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Question: How does his passing in 1997 affect the availability of his hand-signed works?
Answer: Since Howell passed in 1997, the supply of pencil-signed lithographs is strictly finite. His estate has released posthumous works, but the "Life-Signed" pieces (like the Lakota Summer or Raven series) command a 40% to 60% premium over estate-authorized releases. |
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Question: What is the "Currents" technique in his lithography?
Answer: Howell often used a "subtractive" method on the litho stone to create the wispy, ethereal hair and sky textures he is famous for. Collectors should look for the fine, sharp lines in these areas; if they appear "muddy," it may be a later-state print or a reproduction. |
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Question: Are his "Monotypes" more valuable than his "Lithographs"?
Answer: Yes. Because a monotype is a "one-of-one" original work on paper, they typically sell for $3,000–$8,000, whereas his limited edition lithographs generally stay in the $800–$2,500 range depending on the rarity of the image. |
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Question: How do "Vetted Consignment" and "Vetted Dealer Network" listings differ?
Answer: At Herndon Fine Art, we value talking to people over marketing smoke. Vetted Consignments (RH code) are pieces sourced from private estates—often original Santa Fe collectors from the 1980s—that we have physically inspected. Vetted Dealer Network (TAC or AE) listings come from our trusted partners. Regardless of the source, our reputation stands behind every signature. |
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Question: Why should I consult with Herndon Fine Art for a Frank Howell purchase?
Answer: Because Howell was so prolific, there is a large range of "Estate" and posthumous material. We use our experience to verify the Hand-Signature (often dated by the artist) and the Chop Marks of master printers like Shark’s Ink. We don't do "shopping cart" sales; we want to talk with you directly to ensure the "spiritual light" of the piece is perfectly preserved for your collection. |
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1. EVERY piece of art receives my personal verification of condition and authentication.
2. I WILL NOT ship artwork that isn't in a condition I would accept into my own collection.
3. An A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau
***** ALL PRICES are set by each Seller based on their Unique Motivation to Sell ***** We have a low commission structure of only
25% above each Seller's asking price or a $minimum commission. This allows us to provide buyers with the best price, sellers a better opportunity to sell, and still keep the lights on. In almost all cases, artwork is shipped unframed (UNLESS The ARTWORK IS ON CANVAS or 3-DIMENSIONAL), as I need to personally verify the artworks' authenticity and condition. Artwork that is shipped Framed is shipped framed to protect the work during shipping. Framing is considered USED
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Every client has different motivations for selling and as such we don't offer pricing on the pieces clients sell
If you are looking for the value of your limited edition artwork -- we have a $50 charge for certificates of value if you provide the title, the number of your piece, and an image of your artwork. Original one-of-a-kind pieces require a formal appraisal. Please see our Appraisal Services page.
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