Art judge Lara Evans congratulates Brent Greenwood, whose "Native Sisters" won Best in Show. (Photo by Steve Peterson, Special to The Denver Post)

Greenwood, a native Oklahoman and contemporary artist of both Chickasaw and Ponca heritage, was born in Midwest City, Oklahoma. He graduated with an AFA in 2-Dimensional Art from the Institute of American Indian Arts and a BFA from Oklahoma City University. Best known for his historical and abstract acrylic paintings, many of his figurative works exclude detailed faces because he wants to engage the viewer as an active participant to impart their own feelings and emotions. Greenwood says, "I am extremely humbled to have been chosen for this award. Although most of my work does contain some kind of narrative behind it; it's refreshing to know that people can still connect to my art without knowing the full interpretation."

Native Sisters by Brent Greenwood

The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale supports the National Western Scholarship Trust providing financial support to more than 70 college students studying agribusiness, veterinary science, and rural family medicine. Originated in 1993 by the wives and executives of the Coors Brewing Company, the Coors Art Show has grown to receive more than 35,000 people visitors throughout the 16 days of the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo. This award was graciously donated by Kathy and Brad Coors.

Stomp Dancer by Brent Greenwood

Greenwood is recognizable to many because he has been featured in several of the "United we Thrive" commercials produced by the Chickasaw Nation, he appeared in "Last of the Mohicans," and in the independent documentary, "I Said I Would Never Paint This Way Again." Greenwood is committed to giving back to his community and currently serves as the Indian Education Program Assistant for Edmond Public Schools and will return this summer for the third year to teach at the Chickasaw Arts Academy. The piece titled, Native Sisters, 2014, acrylic, elks' teeth, and artificial sinew on canvas, 24 × 30 which was included in the Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale has also been chosen as the featured image for the Native Crossroads film festival in Norman, Oklahoma, February 26-28, 2015 and his work can be seen at the Red Earth Festival June 5-7, 2015 in Oklahoma City.

Iron Horse Blues by Brent Greenwood