Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It: Darrell Beauchamp on Cliff Cavin Landscapes, Emerging Artists, and Upcoming Exhibits

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 award-winning podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp is interviewed by Tom Fox to discuss the Museum’s current exhibit featuring well-known landscape artist Cliff Caven.

Beauchamp discusses the Museum’s current exhibit, “Cliff Cavin: Journeys of a Lifetime,” featuring 54 new landscape paintings by Seguin-based artist Cliff Cavin, displayed across two galleries, and launched with a reception attended by nearly 100 people. Beecham also reflects on the Museum’s April Roundup, highlighting 19-year-old award winners Eliza Hoffman (Patron’s Choice) and Nathaniel Garza (Director’s Choice), including Garza’s donated painting “The Witness,” inspired by the July 4 flooding, now in the permanent collection. They discuss how digital platforms expand market access for younger artists, why sales announcements are emotional for artists, and Kevin MacPherson’s influence as a teacher. Beauchamp previews upcoming exhibits by Adrienne Stein, Bill Kalwick, and Eric Slocombe, and notes the community impact of the museum’s remembrance garden. Visitor details and website are provided.

Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Categories
Kerr250 Podcast

The Kerr250 Podcast: The MOWA Kerr 250 Flag Display: Sponsorship, Operations, and Community Engagement

Kerr250 is a community-focused podcast dedicated to celebrating America’s 250th birthday through the people, businesses, traditions, and events of Kerr County. As our nation marks this historic anniversary on July 4, 2026, Kerr250 will highlight the local celebrations and community efforts that bring this milestone to life. Each episode will feature conversations with local leaders, business owners, organizers, volunteers, and proud citizens who are helping make Kerr County a vibrant part of this national moment. The podcast will explore how history, patriotism, service, and community pride come together in one county that believes America’s strength has always come from its people. Kerr250 is where Kerr County honors the past, celebrates the present, and helps inspire the future.

In this episode, Tom Fox visits with the Museum of Western Art Executive Director, Darrell Beauchamp, on the Museum’s trip to America’s birthday with its flag display.

Beauchamp describes a flag display launched in late April and scheduled to run through September 13 as a contribution to the Kerr 250/America 250 effort led locally by Nancy Foster. The installation includes all 50 state flags plus an additional Minnesota flag to accommodate differing preferences; 27 historical versions of the U.S. flag through the 50th; several Texas flags; two 50-star flags flown over the state and U.S. capitols; and Kerr 250 flags, creating a patriotic driveway experience. Community members sponsor flags for personal reasons such as honoring family, home states, where they met a spouse, or past duty stations; most state flags and about 20 U.S. history flags have been sponsored. The project involves material and installation costs, uses solar lighting for nighttime illumination, requires periodic maintenance after high winds, and has experienced no theft or damage.

Highlights include:

  • Why There Are 51 State Flags
  • Historic US Flags Lineup
  • Personal Flag Sponsorships
  • Solar Lighting At Night

Resources:

Kerr250 website

MOWA

Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – Unveiling the Timeless Art of A.R. Mitchell: An In-Depth Conversation with Allyson Sheumaker

In this episode of ‘It’s Art. Let’s Talk About It,’ Darrell Beauchamp engages with Allyson Sheumaker, the Executive Director of the A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art in Trinidad, Colorado.

They dive deep into the history, legacy, and incredible body of work of Arthur Roy Mitchell, fondly known as Mitch. Known for his striking and vibrant illustrations for pulp Western magazines in the early 20th century, Mitchell’s art is celebrated for its vivid color and unique style. Allyson offers a fascinating look at Mitchell’s life, his reluctance to sell his art, and his significant contributions to the art world. The discussion explores the journey of putting together an extensive exhibition showcasing Mitchell’s works, which include illustrations, landscapes, nocturnes, and personal memorabilia. This in-depth conversation provides listeners with insights into the importance of preserving and promoting the work of lesser-known yet significant artists like A.R. Mitchell.

Key highlights:

  • The Legacy of A.R. Mitchell
  • R. Mitchell’s Early Life and Career
  • Mitchell’s Art and Illustrations
  • The A.R. Mitchell Museum: Origins and Mission
  • The Mac Cowboys and Their Connection to Trinidad
  • The Exhibition: Development, Highlights, and Visitor Experience

Resources:

Follow A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art

Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – The Artistic Journey of Walt Gonske: From New Jersey to Taos

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 the legacy of the American West is preserved for future generations.  Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this award-winning podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp welcomes artist Walt Gonske to discuss his extensive journey in the art world.

Their conversation covers his early days of drawing comic book characters, his six-year art school experience, and his career in men’s fashion illustration in New York City. Walt shares the pivotal moment when he decided to move from New York to Taos, New Mexico, where he embraced the local art scene. He explains the origins of his fascination with the northern New Mexico churches and camposantos, which became a significant theme in his work. Walt describes his innovative ‘Paint Mobile,’ a mobile studio allowing him to paint on location comfortably. Throughout the discussion, Walt also offers advice to young artists, emphasizing the importance of painting from life and of continuous practice. The episode also highlights the exhibition of Walt’s ‘Church Series’ at the Museum of Western Art and discusses the significance and development of these works.

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – Exploring the Artistic World of Kathleen Frank

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 the legacy of the American West is preserved for future generations. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this award-winning podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp welcomes artist Kathleen Frank to discuss her unique artistic journey and her upcoming exhibition at the Museum of Western Art.

The conversation covers Kathleen’s painting style, her transition from printmaking to painting, and her passion for landscapes. Kathleen shares insights into her creative process, which involves using reference photos and a structured approach to painting. The discussion also touches on her background, including her early exposure to art through travels and her family’s influence. Throughout the episode, Kathleen offers valuable advice to young artists and discusses her inspirations and career. The episode concludes by highlighting her new book, ‘I See a Painting,’ and where her artwork can be viewed and purchased.

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Kathleen Frank Fine Art website

Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – Exploring the Journey of Shanna Kunz: From Courthouse Stenographer to Celebrated Landscape Artist

The Museum of Western Art is dedicated to excellence in the collection, preservation, and promotion of Western Heritage, as well as 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 award-winning podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp welcomes renowned landscape artist Shanna Kunz from Ogden, Utah, to discuss her artistic journey.

Shanna shares how she transitioned from a career as a court stenographer to becoming a full-time artist after a life-changing watercolor class at age 29. She details her formal education at Utah State and the significant influences of mentors and fellow artists. Shanna also talks about balancing art with life, the importance of values and design in painting, and her pleasure in teaching workshops. Additionally, she highlights her involvement with a group of eight female artists called the Wild Women, who travel and paint together. The episode delves into her preferred techniques, favorite subjects, and upcoming projects, offering listeners valuable insights into her creative process and the business of art.

Highlights include:

  • Shanna’s Journey into Art
  • The Wild Women Artists Group
  • Advice for Aspiring Artists
  • The Importance of Values in Painting
  • The Business Side of Art
  • The Journey and Passion for Art

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Shanna Kunz Fine Art website

Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – The Artistic Journey of Kevin Macpherson: From Illustrator to Renowned Painter

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 is preserved for future generations. Western Art is as engaging and important as ever. In this award-winning podcast series, Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp welcomes Kevin Macpherson.  

They discuss Kevin’s long-standing friendship with Walt Gonski and his journey in the art world. Kevin shares his early beginnings, transitioning from an illustrator to a fine artist, and how his passion for landscape painting developed. They delve into the details of Kevin’s well-known ‘Pond Series,’ his teaching experiences, and the impact of global travels on his work. This episode provides an insightful look into Kevin’s career and his contributions to the art community. 

Highlights include:

  • Kevin Macpherson’s Early Art Journey
  • Life in Taos and Artistic Growth
  • The Pond Series
  • Journey as an Author
  • Advice for Aspiring Artists

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Kevin Macpherson Fine Art Website

Categories
The Hill Country Podcast

The Hill Country Podcast – Upcoming Exhibits and Events at the Museum of Western Art

Welcome to the award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this the most unique area of Texas. This week, Tom welcomes back Darrell Beauchamp, Executive Director of the Museum of Western Art, to discuss upcoming events at the MOWA.

Darrell provides insights into the museum’s recent and upcoming exhibits and events. The conversation highlights the museum’s 42nd Annual Roundup Exhibition and Sale, set to kick off on April 25th, featuring a diverse range of 180 works from over 70 artists. Darrell also previews intriguing exhibitions like Rachel Spencer’s ‘Icons of the American West’ photography show and Walt Gonski’s impressionist Western art series, among others. Darrell recaps the museum’s successful past few months, including notable shows such as Kevin McPherson’s ‘Pond Series’ and ‘South Texas Aesthetic’ by Jason Scull and Noe Perez. Darrell discusses the museum’s artist-in-residence program and commitment to bringing visitors unique, quality art.

Key highlights:

  • Upcoming Events and Exhibitions
  • Photography and Iconic Exhibits
  • Celebration and Artist Interaction
  • Recent Exhibits and Artists in Residence
  • Sculpture Garden and Texas Rangers

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Nancy Huffman Fine Art

Other Hill Country-Focused Podcasts:

Hill Country Authors Podcast

Hill Country Artists Podcast

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

Categories
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It: Texas Aesthetic: Sculpture and Painting Exhibitions at The Museum of Western Art

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.

Producer Tom Fox interviews Museum Executive Director Darrell Beauchamp while behind the guest microphone in this award-winning podcast series. They delve into the Museum’s recent, current, and upcoming shows, providing a unique educational experience for art enthusiasts.

They highlight the impact of recent shows featuring renowned artists Scott Christensen and Quang Ho. Their conversation also delves into Al Glann’s unique sculptural approach, which utilizes negative space in his metalwork. Additionally, the episode covers future exhibitions, including a pop-up show featuring Kevin MacPherson, and emphasizes the Museum’s role in community engagement and promotion of the arts.

Highlights Include:

  • Dynamic Negative Space Sculptures by Al Glann
  • Spotlighting Renowned Artists in It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It
  • Artistic Showcase: Unique Museum Exhibition Collaborations
  • Texas Aesthetic: Sculptures and Paintings Exhibition
  • Wildlife Photography Exhibition by Rachel Spencer

Memorable Quotes

“His work is sculpture, but it’s negative space sculpture in that you look at it and, well, that horse’s ribcage isn’t complete. You know, it’s just, it’s. But your negative space allows it, you know, to fill in.” Darrell Beauchamp

“Well, you talk about the passion. I was unfamiliar with both of those artists. But I saw that passion in their work.” – Tom Fox

“It’s a beautiful way of looking at, how do you get action and how do you get emotion from a piece of sculpture when it’s not all there? The negative space, especially since he works in a lot of primary colors that works in brighten reds and yellows and blues, and, and it’s, it’s just a step away from all that tradition enough.” – Darrell Beauchamp

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Categories
The Hill Country Podcast

The Hill Country Podcast: Comings and Goings at The Museum of Western Art

Welcome to award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this the most unique area of Texas.

This week Tom welcomes back Dr. Darrell Beauchamp to delve into the vibrant world of Western art through the exhibits of the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas.

This episode highlights notable past shows like the Scott Christensen and Quang Ho exhibit, deemed the summer blockbuster by art critics, and dives into current and upcoming exhibitions such as Al Glann’s ‘Poetry in Motion’ and Kevin MacPherson’s ‘Reflections on a Pond.’ Dr. Beauchamp discusses the appeal of Glan’s innovative use of negative space and the immersive experience of MacPherson’s 365-day painting series. The conversation covers more than just exhibitions, providing insights into the thriving artistic community and the cultural significance of artists like Jason Scull and Noe Perez, whose work captures the essence and wildlife of South Texas. Tune in for a rich tapestry of artistic narratives that echo through the Hill Country, inviting both physical and virtual visitors to the Museum of Western Art.

Key Highlights:

  • Current and Upcoming Museum Exhibits
  • Spotlight on Scott Christensen and Quang Ho
  • Al Glann’s Artistic Journey and Podcast Insights
  • Upcoming Events at the Gallery
  • Kevin MacPherson’s Reflections on a Pond
  • Jason Scull and Noe Perez

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts

Hill Country Authors Podcast

Hill Country Artists Podcast

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network