Nevada Grassie: The Art of the Hunt

USAF Veteran Nevada Grassie is a master artist with an innate ability to transform animal skulls, bones, and wood into extraordinary works of art. His pieces are one-of-a-kind, a reflection of his deep passion for hunting and the great outdoors.

Born in Gallup, New Mexico, Nevada was raised on a ranch, where he worked, hunted, and embraced the western lifestyle. His artistic talent was shaped by his upbringing—his mother’s phenomenal saddle-making and leather-smithing skills, paired with his father’s cowboy heritage. From an early age, a sketch pad was never far from Nevada’s hands, allowing him to capture the beauty of nature through drawing and carving.

Nevada’s talents shine in his bone carving work, alongside custom wood gunstocks and eclectic pieces crafted from a variety of materials. He finds inspiration in the natural contours of each skull, often saying that the “lines” of a bone guide his creations. “When I get my hands and mind into a project, I can just sense the story in those BONZ,” he shares.

After serving two deployments over a decade as a Combat Engineer in the United States Air Force, Nevada returned to his roots—hunting, creating, and giving back. His efforts have raised over one million dollars for organizations like The Wild Sheep Foundation, Wounded Warriors, and others across the country.

A significant part of Nevada’s story is his connection with his canine companions. His first, SIX, was more than just a dog—she was his right hand and constant friend through life’s toughest moments. When SIX passed from cancer, her loss left a deep void, but in came Tarawa, a new champion for his heart. Tarawa now walks by his side, carrying the torch that SIX once held, and the bond between Nevada and Tarawa is strong, filled with anticipation for life’s next adventure.

As Nevada reflects on his journey, he shares, “I am grateful for the support and love from my family and friends.” This heartfelt sentiment underscores the importance of those who have been with him every step of the way.