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It’s art, let’s talk about it – Brandon Bailey on Shaping Art Through Personal Experiences

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in collecting, preserving, and promoting Western Heritage and our diverse audiences’ education and cultural enrichment. The Museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of the American West will be preserved for the future. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp visits with the artists who work in this Western heritage to talk about their work, the legacy of Western Art, and why talking about it is so important today. In this episode, Darrell visits a member of the Cowboy Artists of America, Brandon Bailey.

Brandon Bailey, a Cowboy Artist of America member with over 16 years of professional artistry, is known for his focus on Russian impressionism. He has received recognition from numerous esteemed figures in the art world. Moreover, he has participated in significant exhibitions and programs and leverages his social media presence to share his artistic journey. Bailey’s perspective on his membership in the Cowboy Artist of America stems from a transformative journey that required hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. He values the opportunities provided by the organization, such as scholarships and mentorships, that have fostered his growth as an artist. Additionally, rather than concentrating solely on personal success, Bailey emphasizes adherence to the mission and vision of the Cowboy Artist of America, reflecting his profound respect for the traditions and values of the cowboy art community.

Highlights Include:

  • Preserving Western Art Tradition Through Prestigious Membership
  • Elevating Artistic Excellence Through Community Support
  • Balanced Artistic Collaborations for Business Success
  • Artist-Led Workshops Inspiring Creativity and Growth
  • Preserving Western Art Through Educational Initiatives
  • Quality Over Quantity in Artistic Legacy
  • Museum Exhibitions: Showcasing Talent and Perseverance

Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Brandon Bailey Fine Art

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Cowboys, Horses, and Heritage: The World of Harold T. Holden

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in the collection, preservation, and promotion of Western heritage and the education and cultural enrichment of our diverse audiences. The museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of the American West will be preserved for the future. Western art is as engaging and important as ever. In this podcast series, Museum Executive Direct Darrell Beauchamp visits with the artists who work in this western heritage to talk about their work, the legacy of Western Art and why talking about it is so important today. In this episode, Darrell visits Harold T. Holden, known to his friends as ‘H’ and his work in sculpture. Harold passed away before this episode could be posted so our podcast today begins with a tribute to Harold T. Holden by Darrell and Jason Scull.

Holden, a renowned sculptor, discovered his passion for sculpting through his deep-rooted connection to horses and cowboy and Indian themes, which were a significant part of his upbringing. His perspective on his sculpting career is deeply influenced by his love for horses and the cowboy way of life, a love that was instilled in him by his father, who raised horses. Tragically, his father passed away when Harold was young, but this loss only served to deepen his connection to the equine subjects of his work. Transitioning from painting to sculpting in 1974, Holden has since created numerous sculptures, including monumental pieces that have earned him a reputation as a world-class sculptor. Despite his success, he remains humble, constantly striving for improvement in his art and drawing inspiration from the gear and artifacts of the cowboy world that fill his studio. 

Highlights Include:

  • Sculpting Life: Harold T. Holden’s Artistic Dedication
  • Harold T. Holden’s Induction into Cowboy Artist
  • Cowboys and Horses: Harold T. Holden’s Inspiration
  • Preserving Western Heritage Through Harold T. Holden’s Studio

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Harold T. Holden Western Artist

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Ron Riddick: The Enriching Influence of Western Culture

In this episode of “It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It,” host Darrell Beauchamp sat down with renowned artist Ron Riddick to discuss his artistic journey and the delicate balance between commercial success and artistic integrity. Ron’s passion for art began at a young age, influenced by his father’s profession and his exposure to art museums. Throughout the episode, Ron shares his insights on the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision while navigating the demands of the art market.

One of the key themes that emerged from the conversation was Ron’s belief that artists should strive to balance commercial success with artistic integrity. He emphasized that an artist’s worth is defined by the quality of their next creation, rather than the monetary value of their work. Ron’s love for the American West and cowboy culture is evident in his paintings, which are influenced by his childhood experiences and the cultural exchange between Mexican American and Native American influences.

Ron’s artistic routine begins early in the morning, and he finds inspiration in the changing seasons. He believes that artists should paint what they love and find meaningful, encouraging them to study their subjects and fall in love with the stories and poetry behind them. Ron’s approach to art is deeply personal, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the subject matter on a spiritual level.

Throughout his career, Ron has faced the challenge of balancing commercial success with artistic integrity. He acknowledges that the art industry often pressures artists to conform to certain trends or market demands. However, he believes that true artistic growth comes from breaking free of these expectations and finding one’s own vision. Ron encourages artists to learn to see and think for themselves rather than simply catering to what the industry wants.

The episode also touched on the role of museums in the art world. Ron expressed his belief that museums are vital in preserving and showcasing valuable art. He emphasized that good art connects with the human spirit and has the power to evoke emotions and touch the hearts of viewers. Ron sees artists as providing an invaluable service to culture by preserving what is good and putting it out there for people to be reminded of.

Ron’s artistic journey serves as a reminder that the pursuit of art is a continuous journey of growth and self-discovery. He emphasizes that artists never truly arrive but must keep on growing and evolving. Ron’s humility and dedication to his craft are evident in his words, as he acknowledges that there is always more to learn and explore.

In conclusion, Ron Riddick’s artistic journey is a testament to the delicate balance between commercial success and artistic integrity. His passion for painting what he loves and finding meaning in his subjects shines through in his work. Ron’s insights on the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision and the value of museums for preserving art serve as valuable lessons for artists and art enthusiasts alike. As Ron himself states, “It’s not that you make a lot of money; it’s that you’re doing an invaluable service to culture by preserving what’s good and putting it out there for people to be reminded.”

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Ron Riddick, Cowboy Artists of America

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Vickie McMillan Hayes – Painting the Wild: An Artist’s Journey

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in the collection, preservation, and promotion of Western Heritage and the education and cultural enrichment of our diverse audiences. The Museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of the American West will be preserved for the future. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this podcast series, Museum Executive Direct Darrell Beauchamp visits with the artists who work in this western heritage to talk about their work, the legacy of Western Art and why talking about it is so important today.

In this episode, renowned artist Vickie McMillan Hayes shares her inspirational story about how her love for nature and her involuntary muscle movements due to her condition has influenced her unique art style. Listen in as Vickie talks about how art has deepened her connection to nature and reveals a sneak peek into her latest project at Schreiner University. The conversation also delves into the importance of networking in the art world, creativity in schools, and how art is a symbol of culture and history. Don’t miss out on the insightful conversation between these two art enthusiasts! Find out more about Vickie’s work and connect with her on her website and social media. Produced by the Texas Hill Country Podcast network, “It’s Art. Let’s Talk About It” is the perfect platform for art collectors, artists, and gallery directors who want to delve deeper into the history and importance of Western art.

Vickie shares how she discovered her passion for art at a young age, thanks to the support of her parents who saw her potential and nurtured her talent.

According to Vickie, “I was fortunate. I had parents who really saw and believed in me. They would take me to art classes. They would expose me to artists.” Through this early exposure, Vickie developed a love for art that only grew as she got older.

For those who are interested in pursuing art, Vickie offers some tips based on her own experience. First, don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with different styles. Second, seek out mentors and educators who can help guide you in your journey. And lastly, never stop learning – read art books, attend workshops, and keep practicing.

So, why should you listen to this episode? If you’re an artist yourself, or simply someone who is interested in the creative process, Vickie’s story offers inspiration and insight into what it takes to pursue a career in art. As Darrell Beauchamp notes, “We’ll talk about why talking about Western art is so important.” Vickie’s  story is a testament to the power of art, and why it is worth preserving and promoting for future generations.

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Vickie McMillan Hayes

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It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – Jack Sorenson on the Way of the Cowboy Artist

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in the collection, preservation, and promotion of Western Heritage and the education and cultural enrichment of our diverse audiences. The Museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of the American West will be preserved for the future. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this podcast series, Museum Executive Direct Darrell Beauchamp visits with the artists who work in this Western heritage to talk about their work, the legacy of Western Art, and why talking about it is so important today.

In this episode, Darrell Beauchamp, the Executive Director of the Museum, visits with the talented artist, Jack Sorenson. As one of the newest members of the exclusive Cowboy Artists of America, Sorenson shares his experience as a Western art creator, from his natural talent for drawing to his love for the Old West that inspired his work. Follow along as Sorenson recounts his journey to joining the elite group and how his career has blossomed since becoming a member. Discover the behind-the-scenes aspects of the art world, including what it means to be a member of a well-established group, and how that has impacted the artist’s workload and prices for his work. Through heartwarming anecdotes, Sorenson expresses his profound admiration for his mentors and fellow artists in the Western art world. He also discusses the importance of traditions such as the art show at the museum and the handprints and CA brand ceremony. Listen in as the host and guest delve into what makes Western art so special, and its impact on the world of art.

With engaging conversations, fascinating insights, and a charming guest, this episode is not to be missed.

If you’re someone who’s passionate about Western art, then this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Here are three takeaways from Jack Sorenson:

1. Follow Your Passion: Jack’s obsession with the West led him to pursue a career in Western art. His love for horses and the old west comes from watching classic Western shows and growing up in an old Western-themed town. Find what inspires you and run with it.

2. Create Your Own Path: Jack’s journey to becoming a Cowboy Artist of America was unique. It was filled with different stops, working other jobs, and perfecting his craft along the way. Regardless of where you come from, what’s important is to keep working hard to reach your goal.

3. Pay Homage to the Old and New: Jack’s art is a mix of old Western art and modern-day cowboys. He wants to pay homage to the cowboys who paved the way while also showcasing the modern-day cowboy. Being able to look back and learn from the past while also appreciating the present is important in any genre.

If you’re interested in learning about Jack’s path to becoming a Cowboy Artist of America, this episode of It’s Art, let’s talk about it is the perfect place to start.

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Jack Sorenson

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Sarah Harless on the Importance of Art Education

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in the collection, preservation, and promotion of Western Heritage and the education and cultural enrichment of our diverse audiences. The Museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of the American West will be preserved for the future. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this podcast series, Museum Executive Direct Darrell Beauchamp visits with the artists who work in this Western heritage to talk about their work, the legacy of Western Art, and why talking about it is so important today.

In this episode, Darrell welcomes artist and art educator, Sarah Harless, who discusses her experiences as a teacher and artist and highlights the importance of visiting museums to truly appreciate the texture and movement in art pieces. Listen in as the conversation shifts to Sarah’s personal journey into art and her love for cowboy art. Don’t miss out on this emotional episode where Sarah talks about the impact of mentorship on her art and her life. With engaging topics like these, the “It’s Art, let’s talk about it” podcast is a must-listen for all art enthusiasts!

Here are three tips to keep in mind:

1.     First, it enables students to develop creative thinking skills that are transferable to other aspects of their education and future careers.

2.     Second, it provides a unique outlet for self-expression, enabling students to process and express their emotions.

3.     Lastly, it fosters an appreciation for the beauty of art and can enhance students’ quality of life.

Sarah’s passion for art and teaching is evident throughout the podcast. As she shared, “Being an art teacher fulfills me both as an artist and as an individual.” To learn more about the importance of art education, listen to the full podcast episode on It’s art, let’s talk about it.

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Sarah Harless

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let's talk about it

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – Jason Scull

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in the collection, preservation, and promotion of Western Heritage and our diverse audiences’ education and cultural enrichment. The Museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of the American West will be preserved for the future. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp visits with the artists who work in this Western heritage to talk about their work, the legacy of Western Art, and why talking about it is so important today.

In this inaugural episode of “It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It,” host Darrell Beauchamp interviews sculptor Jason Scull and talks about how he got started in sculpting and how his mother’s encouragement helped his artistry blossom. Despite his family’s farming and ranching background, Jason found solace and inspiration in art. He explains how his journey into sculpting began with a simple question at a museum, leading to an exciting and fulfilling career.

Jason primarily sculpts cows, horses, and Hispanic subjects, denoting Texas culture and regional work. The podcast explores the significance of mentorship and the responsibility of successful artists to give back, including Jason’s work with the Western Art Academy. The hosts also touch on the history and future of the Cowboy Artists of America organization and provide useful advice for aspiring artists. Listen in as Jason and Darrell dive deep into the world of visual art in this exciting and enlightening conversation. If you’ve ever been interested in sculpting or art, this episode is a must-listen.

Here are three tips to keep in mind:

1. Believe in yourself – Jason’s story is an inspiring example of how believing in yourself and your abilities can lead to amazing opportunities. Don’t be afraid to take chances and explore new paths.

2. Find inspiration in unexpected places – Sometimes, inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. Jason’s chance question at a museum led to his passion for sculpting. Keep an open mind and let yourself be inspired by the world around you.

3. Practice, practice, practice – Jason didn’t become a talented sculptor overnight. It took years of hard work and dedication. Whatever your passion may be, remember that practice and persistence are key to improving.

As Jason says: “The circuitous route our lives take at times takes us to strange places.” Listen to this episode to learn more about Jason’s incredible journey and how his love of sculpting has helped him find fulfillment in life.

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Jason Scull