Just call him “H”

Article in the April/May 2017 edition of iOnOklahoma Magazine.

Harold T. Holden, affectionately known as “H,” has quietly built one of Oklahoma’s most celebrated careers in Western art. A lifelong observer of cowboy life, Holden’s work draws from decades of experience on ranches, in rodeos, and through the people and landscapes that define the American West. From sketching cowboys in school textbooks to serving as art director for Horseman Magazine, Holden pursued a dream of creating art that truly captures the spirit of the West.

In April, Holden’s dedication and talent were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Hall of Great Westerners at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum—the first Oklahoma artist to earn this honor since the award’s inception in 1955. Known for his modesty and quiet demeanor, Holden accepted the award with characteristic brevity, letting his work speak for itself.

Today, Holden and his wife, Edna Mae, live on their ranch north of Enid, where his gallery doubles as a home and studio. Inspired by the historical and contemporary West, Holden continues to paint, sculpt, and mentor young artists, passing on the traditions and stories that have shaped his life and career. His art is more than imagery—it’s a living tribute to the cowboy way of life and the enduring values of freedom, perseverance, and connection to the land.