URGENT UPDATE: Renowned artist and designer Joel Raye Cheves has passed away just days before his 83rd birthday on October 14, 2025. Born on October 19, 1942, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Cheves leaves behind a legacy of creativity that spanned decades, influencing both the art and design communities.
Cheves’s journey began as a young boy, shaped by the experiences of his father, a U.S. Navy Seabee during World War II. His passion for art ignited during family trips to the Rocky Mountains, a love that defined his life and career. After graduating from Northwest Classen High School in 1960, he pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Baylor University, where he became a member of the Noble NoZe Brotherhood.
His artistic career took flight in Houston, Texas, where he worked with Visual Concepts, Inc. on projects for NASA, contributing vital illustrations for the Apollo Lunar Space Landing Program. His intricate designs not only educated the public but also inspired a generation fascinated by space exploration.
In the late 1960s, Cheves moved to Denver, Colorado, where he joined Designers West. His work there included producing corporate advertising, motorcycle club insignias, and acclaimed concert posters for artists like Leon Russell. His creativity flourished further as he became a master jeweler, establishing Silver Cloud Custom Jewelers in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Throughout the 1970s, Cheves created stunning jewelry pieces and artworks that reflected his love for nature and the mountains. He was known for his active lifestyle, excelling in skiing, handball, and pool, while fostering connections with friends in Colorado and beyond, including the beaches of Cozumel and Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
After nearly twenty-five years in the Rockies, he returned to Oklahoma City to care for his aging mother. Adapting to the digital age, Cheves became an early expert in web development and digital design, showcasing his work on his website, http://www.omegagrafix.com.
Joel Raye Cheves will be remembered not just for his artistic talents but for his peaceful spirit and kind demeanor. Friends and family describe him as a lover of life who sought to reflect beauty in every form.
As the art community mourns his loss, those who knew him are reminded of his ability to transform experience into lasting beauty. The impact of his work will resonate for years to come, inspiring future generations of artists and designers.
Stay tuned for further updates on memorial services and tributes honoring Joel Raye Cheves and his remarkable contributions to art and design.
