Tag: Museum of Western Art

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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
It's art

It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It – The Journey of Walt Gonske: An Artist’s Path from New York 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 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 Walt Gonske to discuss his career, focusing on his latest exhibition, ‘Walt Gonske, the Church Series.’

Their conversation covers Gonske’s early passion for drawing, his transition from a freelance men’s fashion illustrator in New York to a renowned painter in Taos, New Mexico. Gonske shares his experiences, including his unique ‘Paint Mobile,’ painting techniques, and the importance of painting from life. The discussion also touches on his journey of establishing himself in the art world, his collaboration with the Taos Six, and insights for emerging artists.

Highlights include:

  • Walt’s Artistic Beginnings
  • Building a Life and Career in Taos
  • The Taos Six and Artistic Community
  • The First Paint Mobile Experience
  • Techniques and Bright Colors
  • The Church Series Exhibition
  • Advice for Young Artists

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Walt Gonske – The Church Series

Walt Gonske Fine Art Website

Categories
It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Icons of the American West: A Conversation with Photographer Rachel Spencer

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 is welcomed by renowned photographer Rachel Spencer, whose recent exhibit, ‘Icons of the American West,’ has opened at the Museum of Western Art.

Rachel discusses her artistic journey from studying fine art and graphic design to becoming a celebrated wildlife photographer. She highlights her development as an artist, the meticulous planning and extensive travel involved in capturing the perfect shots, and the transition from a focus on horses and birds to iconic Western wildlife. Rachel also shares insights into her creative process, her favorite photographic equipment, and the importance of capturing the broader landscape in her work. The conversation delves into the challenges and joys of assembling a photography show and offers advice for budding photographers. Rachel’s current and future projects, including a new series focused on horses, are also discussed.

Highlights include:

  • Rachel’s Early Journey in Photography
  • Creating the Icons of the American West Exhibit
  • Adventures and Challenges in Wildlife Photography
  • Favorite Shots and Their Stories
  • Mentorship and Influences
  • Advice for Aspiring Photographers

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Rachel Spencer Photography

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Hill Country Artists Podcast

Texas Hill Country Artists Podcast: Exploring Art and Advocacy: A Conversation with Carol Arnold

Delve into the heart of the Texas Hill Country with the award-winning “Hill Country Artists Podcast,” which illustrates and illuminates the vibrant tapestry of art rooted in this iconic region. From the sun-drenched limestone cliffs to the serene Guadalupe River, the Hill Country has been a muse for countless artists, providing a unique backdrop for creativity to flourish. In each episode, we uncover the stories behind the area’s most captivating artworks, converse with local artists about their inspirations, and explore the fusion of Texan traditions with contemporary artistic expressions.

In this episode, Tom visits with Carol Arnold, an accomplished artist from Kerrville, Texas, to discuss her journey and contributions to the arts. Carol shares her recognition by the Kerrville Chamber of Commerce for her work with the Museum of Western Art, elaborates on her role in teaching and fundraising, and highlights upcoming art shows. She reflects on her early influences, the transition from a career in petroleum land management to full-time artistry, and the importance of community support and mentorship throughout her career. Carol also offers insights into her creative process, including how she captures landscapes and wildlife in her artwork. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of balancing artistic passion with family life and hear about Carol’s upcoming workshops and gallery shows.

Key highlights:

  • Carol Arnold’s Award and Role at the Museum
  • The Roundup Program and Its Impact
  • Carol’s Artistic Journey Begins
  • Balancing Art and Family Life
  • Upcoming Shows and Teaching Plans

Resources:

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

The Hill Country Artists Facebook Page

Carol Arnold Workshop at the Museum of Western Art

Carol Arnold Fine Art Website

Carol Arnold on Instagram

Carol Arnold on Facebook

Cover art courtesy Deanna Eixman Fine Art