Tag: Museum of Western Art

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It’s art, let’s talk about it: Todd Connor – Unveiling The Spirit of The American West

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 Todd Connor, member of Cowboy Artists of America.

Todd Connor, a former Navy Seal, has now successfully carved a niche for himself in the realm of art as a member of the Cowboy Artists of America, with his work featured in significant exhibitions such as the 41st Annual Roundup Exhibition and the Museum of Western Art.

His transition from the military to the art world signifies a journey of self-discovery and exploration. Following his departure from the service, Todd embarked on travels across the country, delving into history and art galleries, ultimately leading him to his newfound career as an artist. He identifies the creativity and adaptability he honed during his time as a warrior as crucial attributes that have served him in his artistic endeavors.

This transition demonstrates an intriguing and unique origin story, highlighting the diverse experiences and talents individuals can possess.

Highlights Include:

  • Genre-inspired Artistic Growth and Development
  • Warrior’s Journey: From Navy SEAL to Artist
  • Balancing Act: Completing Paintings with Precision
  • Inspirational Artists Across Time and Styles
  • Preserving the Legacy of Western Art
  • Authenticity in Art: Honoring Historical Accuracy
  • Continuous Creative Development Through Learning Journeys

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Todd Connor Studio

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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, let’s talk about it – Catherine McIntye and Lee Ann Whatley on The Art of Susanne Vincent

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 Catherine McIntye and Lee Ann Whatley, the two women responsible for the most recent Museum exhibit, Glory and Grime: The Art of Susanne Vincent.

Catherine McIntye, renowned for rescuing her mother’s artwork from Hurricane Laura’s aftermath and daughter of Susanne Vincent, together with Lee Ann Whatley, a skilled artist, curator, and documenter, hold distinctive perspectives on the “Glory and Grime” exhibition. McIntye views the exhibition as deeply personal, a tribute to her mother’s legacy, and a testament to the resilience she witnessed amidst the hardships faced in the Gulf Coast region. Her involvement in salvaging and restoring her mother’s artwork after the hurricane led to the birth of this exhibition, reshaping the narrative of Western art. Whatley sees the exhibition as a unique showcase of Susanne Vincent’s non-traditional, emotive artwork. Drawing from her diversified background and appreciation for the harmony of nature and country life, Whatley acknowledges the exhibition as honoring the story of the Gulf Coast of Texas, cattle ranching, and the representation of a strong woman in that environment.

Highlights Include: 

  • Ranching Life Through Susanne Vincent’s Eyes
  • Gulf Coast Emotive Artistry by Susanne Vincent
  • Preserving Art for Future Generations
  • Nature’s Harmony: Susanne Vincent’s Art Elegance
  • Gulf Coast Ranching Realities in Art

Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

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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, let’s talk about it – Carol Arnold on Expressing Emotions Through Pastel Landscapes

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 with Texas-based artist Carol Arnold, who specializes in pastel landscapes.

Carol identifies as a pastelist with a deep emotional connection to her work, often drawing inspiration from the rugged environment and character of West Texas. Her favorite subjects include clouds, landscapes, wildlife, and flowers, and she enjoys working in various sizes, with her favorite being anywhere from eleven x 14 to 24 x 36. Carol’s disciplined approach to her craft, coupled with her love for plein air painting, allows her to capture the emotional essence of landscapes using pastels. Join Darrell Beauchamp and Carol Arnold on this episode of “It’s art, let’s talk about it” to delve deeper into their artistic journeys and perspectives.

Highlights Include:

  • Expressing Emotions Through Pastel Landscapes
  • The Importance of Discipline in Artistry
  • The Artistic Process: Incorporating Techniques and Colors
  • Capturing the Essence of West Texas
  • Vibrant Pastel Art with N.U.P.A.S.T.E.L.
  • Artistic Journey through Shows and Exhibitions

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Carol Arnold Fine Art

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It’s art, let’s talk about it – C. S. (Steve) Talley on Capturing the Beauty of the Night

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 with New Mexico artist CS (Steve) Talley.

CS (Steve) Talley is a self-taught artist with over 34 years of experience, specializing in western nocturne paintings. His passion for astronomy and love for landscapes inspired him to start painting nocturnes, particularly after being captivated by a painting featuring illuminated adobe buildings in a nighttime scene by artist Will Sparks. Talley’s journey into the art world began later in life, after pursuing a degree in astronomy and physics and developing an interest in the history of the American West through his involvement in mountain men reenactments. His nocturne paintings, which make up a significant portion of his yearly sales, beautifully capture the beauty of the night. Join Darrell Beauchamp and CS (Steve) Talley on this episode of “It’s art, let’s talk about it” to delve deeper into Talley’s unique artistic journey and his stunning nocturne paintings.

Highlights Include:

  • Discovering Artistic Passion at 34
  • The Catalyst of Artistic Growth
  • Plains Indians-inspired self-taught artist
  • From Programming to Painting: Steve Talley’s Journey
  • Nocturnal Landscapes with Illuminated Adobe Buildings
  • Artistic Perspectives in Galleries
  • A painter’s paradise in Taos, New Mexico

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

C.S. Talley Fine Art

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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, let’s talk about it – Rachel Brownlee – Drawing Inspiration from Everyday Life

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 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 with Nebraska artist Rachel Brownlee.

Rachel Brownlee has captured the attention of art enthusiasts with her remarkable talent and unique perspective. Despite discovering her passion for drawing later in life, Brownlee has achieved significant success in the art world, including winning Best of Show at the prestigious Mountain Oyster Club show. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and highlights the importance of perseverance and finding the right opportunities to showcase one’s talent.

Growing up in a ranching family, Brownlee’s artistic abilities were often overlooked. The expectation was that she would follow in her family’s footsteps and pursue a practical, hands-on career. However, Brownlee’s talent for drawing was undeniable, even though it was not encouraged or nurtured during her childhood. It wasn’t until later in life that she realized the potential of her artistic abilities and decided to pursue her passion.

Brownlee draws inspiration from her Western lifestyle, depicting horses, cattle, and the people she encounters in her daily life. Her style leans towards realism, but she aims to convey her unique perspective rather than replicate a photograph. Through her art, she captures the inherent beauty of the Western lifestyle that is still alive today, showcasing the authenticity and timelessness of this way of life.

Dedicating 40 to 50 hours a week to her art, Brownlee’s commitment and hard work are evident in her stunning creations. She primarily works with pencil and charcoal, using these mediums to bring her subjects to life on paper. Her attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of her subjects have garnered praise and recognition from both fellow artists and art enthusiasts.

One of the key factors that have contributed to Brownlee’s success is her participation in art competitions and her presence on online platforms. These avenues have provided her with opportunities to showcase her talent, connect with others in the industry, and gain exposure to a wider audience. Winning Best of Show at the Mountain Oyster Club show was a significant milestone in her career, validating her talent and opening doors to further opportunities.

Balancing her artistic pursuits with her roles as a ranch wife, mother, and dedicated long-distance runner is no easy feat. Brownlee’s ability to juggle multiple responsibilities is a testament to her determination and passion for her craft. She acknowledges that everything she does could be considered a full-time activity, but she finds a way to make it work, dedicating time and energy to each aspect of her life.

Looking ahead, Brownlee’s journey is far from over. At just 30 years old, she has many years of drawing ahead of her, and she is already contemplating changes and new directions for her art. Her dedication to continuous learning and historical education adds depth and authenticity to her work, allowing her to depict her subjects with a deep understanding and personal connection.

Rachel Brownlee’s late-blooming journey to success serves as a reminder that it is never too late to pursue one’s passion. Her story highlights the importance of perseverance, finding the right opportunities, and staying true to one’s unique perspective. Through her art, she brings the Western lifestyle to life, capturing its beauty and timelessness for all to see.

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Rachel Brownlee Fine Art

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It’s art, let’s talk about it – Rick Kennington, A Journey in Western Art

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 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 with Utah artist Rick Kennington.

Utah painter Rick Kennington has captivated art enthusiasts with his unique blend of contemporary cowboy scenes and Utah’s pioneer history. In a recent episode of the podcast “It’s art, let’s talk about it,” hosted by Darrell Beauchamp, Kennington shared his journey from a career in parks maintenance to becoming a full-time artist. With the support of his wife and the encouragement of early collectors, Kennington made the transition and has since become a prominent figure in the art world.

Kennington’s artistic style has evolved over time, drawing inspiration from various artists and the Western genre. He is particularly drawn to artists who can paint accurately and representational art, while still creating a sense of effortlessness and minimal brushwork. His aim is to create artwork that is both recognizable and pleasing to the eye.

One of the fascinating aspects of Kennington’s artistic process is his ability to work on multiple pieces simultaneously. He typically has three paintings at different stages of completion, allowing him to explore different ideas and techniques. Additionally, he has hundreds of sketches and drawings that serve as inspiration for future works. Sometimes, a simple sketch can evolve into a full-fledged painting, showcasing Kennington’s continuous learning and experimentation.

Throughout the podcast episode, Kennington emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in his artistic journey. He believes that the harder he works, the luckier he becomes, constantly striving to improve his skills and create better paintings. This mindset is evident in his approach to his art, always looking for ways to refine his technique and evoke emotion in his viewers.

Kennington’s artwork has been showcased in various exhibitions, including the 40th Annual Roundup Exhibition and Sale at the Museum of Western Art. His paintings can also be found on his website, RickKennington.com, where art enthusiasts can explore his portfolio and learn more about his creative process.

The podcast episode concludes with Beauchamp expressing his excitement for Kennington’s future in the art world. He encourages listeners to visit Kennington’s exhibitions and follow his career, as he believes it will be a joy to watch his artistic journey unfold.

In summary, Rick Kennington’s transition to Western-inspired artistry in Utah is a testament to his passion, dedication, and continuous growth as an artist. His ability to balance contemporary cowboy scenes with Utah’s pioneer history showcases his versatility and artistic range. As Kennington continues to evolve and refine his style, art enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing the next chapter of his artistic journey.

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Rick Kennington Fine Art

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It’s art, let’s talk about it – Mark McKenna, Paint What You Love

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 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 with Mark McKenna.

Mark McKenna’s journey into the art world was not predetermined but evolved over time, starting from his high school years. Initially planning to become a dentist, McKenna was convinced by a professor and professional illustrator to pursue his passion for art. This decision set him on a path that would lead to his evolution from an art teacher to a renowned wildlife artist.

McKenna’s love for art was evident from a young age. In high school, he recognized that he would make art for his entire life. However, the idea of making a living as an artist seemed far-fetched, as he observed that most artists were struggling financially. With a desire to provide for a family, McKenna initially planned to become a dentist. It was during his time at Brigham Young University, Idaho, that a professor and professional illustrator recognized his talent and convinced him to pursue a career in art.

The professor’s advice resonated with McKenna, and he realized that he could create beautiful things as an artist instead of working in people’s mouths. This revelation changed the course of his life, and he decided to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration. As he got closer to graduation, McKenna also double majored in art education, which eventually led him to become a high school art teacher.

Teaching art allowed McKenna to combine his love for art with education. For eight years, he taught high school art, with seven of those years spent in Cody, Wyoming. This location proved to be a perfect fit for McKenna, as it provided him with inspiration from the wildlife and natural beauty of the area. Teaching also provided him with financial stability, allowing him to focus on his art without the pressure of making sales.

During his teaching years, McKenna attended a workshop with renowned wildlife artist Greg Beecham, who became his mentor. This workshop proved to be a turning point in McKenna’s career. The guidance and inspiration he received from Beecham elevated the quality of his work and ignited his passion for wildlife art. Over the next five years, McKenna built his art career, attending shows and making connections in the art world.

In 2018, McKenna made the decision to transition from teaching to becoming a full-time working artist. This transition was smooth, thanks to the foundation he had built during his teaching years and the mentorship of Greg Beecham. McKenna’s art career continued to flourish, with each year bringing new opportunities and growth.

Recognition at the Museum of Western Art was a significant milestone for McKenna. His work is displayed in galleries like Astoria Fine Art in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and his website, MarkMcKennaStudios.com, provides a platform for art enthusiasts to explore and purchase his artwork. McKenna’s success can be attributed to his dedication to painting what he loves, painting often, and finishing what he starts.

In addition to his artistic skills, McKenna emphasizes the importance of effective self-marketing for artists. He utilizes social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase his work and connect with his audience. McKenna also understands the importance of proper framing and hanging of artwork, as it can significantly impact the presentation and professionalism of the piece.

Looking to share his knowledge and experience with other artists, McKenna is currently creating an online course that focuses on teaching artists how to utilize Photoshop, various aspects of the painting process, and the business side of art. This course will provide aspiring artists with valuable insights and practical skills to navigate the art world.

Mark McKenna’s evolution from an art teacher to a renowned wildlife artist is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and seeking guidance from mentors. His dedication to his craft, combined with his ability to balance teaching and art, has allowed him to create a successful career in the art world. McKenna’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, reminding them to paint what they love, seek mentorship, and embrace the opportunities that come their way.

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Mark McKenna on Instagram