In the first half of the twentieth century, the figure of Warren Rollins painting Indian scenes was a standard part of experiencing the Grand Canyon. The Navajo and Hopi Indians of northern Arizona inspired Rollins throughout his life as an artist and were the subjects of many paintings, pastels, charcoals and sketches.

Rollins was born in Carson City, Nevada, but raised in California. He received his formal training under Virgil Williams at the San Francisco School of Design. His talent was evident even as a student; upon completion of his studies Rollins was appointed assistant director.

The search for appealing subject matter has led many artists to travel in search of fresh material. Rollins' journey through Navajo country led him to every state in the Continental Western U.S. In New Mexico, he painted Chaco Canyon and, with his friend Irving Couse, the area around Taos. In 1910 Rollins became the first president of the Santa Fe Art Club. He was active in the formation and functions of the Museum of New Mexico and was an important teacher in its artists' program.

From a historical point of view, Warren Rollins was the pre-eminent image maker of the Southwest. He has never achieved the renown of some artists, of the Taos artists for example, but his work is truly masterful. It will eventually make its way into major collections around the country as it has in his beloved Southwest.