Tag: Museum of Western Art

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Bill Farnsworth – Inspired Illustrator

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 Bill Farnsworth.

Illustration is a unique form of art that combines storytelling and visual representation. It requires a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of composition, and the ability to bring characters and scenes to life. In a recent episode of the podcast “It’s Art, let’s talk about it,” hosted by Darrell Beauchamp, renowned illustrator Bill Farnsworth shared his journey and valuable advice in the field of illustration artistry.

Farnsworth’s passion for drawing began at a young age, influenced by the captivating characters of Disney. He pursued a degree in illustration at the Ringling School of Art, where he honed his skills and gained a solid foundation in the craft. Farnsworth specialized in children’s books and historical illustrations, finding fulfillment in bringing stories and historical events to life through his art.

Like many artists, Farnsworth faced challenges along his journey. Self-doubt and the competitive nature of the art world can be daunting, but he persevered and found success in his chosen path. He emphasizes the importance of being versatile and exploring different directions throughout one’s career. Farnsworth believes that artists should be willing to turn over every rock and pursue multiple avenues to expand their horizons and find new opportunities.

One of the key takeaways from Farnsworth’s advice is the importance of learning from established artists. He cites several artists, such as Bernie Fuchs, NC Wyeth, John Singer Sargent, and Anders Zorn, as his idols. Farnsworth encourages young artists to attend workshops led by admired artists instead of pursuing costly four-year college programs. He believes learning directly from experienced professionals can provide valuable insights and practical knowledge to accelerate an artist’s growth.

Farnsworth’s painting process involves working on multiple pieces at once. This approach allows him to explore various subjects and keeps him engaged and inspired. He believes in laying the groundwork and sketching out ideas beforehand, ensuring he has a clear vision before starting a painting. Farnsworth also emphasizes the importance of being open to inspiration and constantly seeking new subjects that excite him.

Throughout his career, Farnsworth has transitioned from illustration to fine art. He believes that his experience in illustration has helped him become a better fine artist. The attention to detail and storytelling skills he developed as an illustrator has translated into his fine art, allowing him to create captivating and meaningful pieces.

Farnsworth acknowledges that being an artist can be challenging, both financially and emotionally. However, he finds solace in the fact that art feeds the soul and brings joy to both the artist and the viewer. He believes that the personal connection between the artist and the buyer is crucial, as art is a deeply personal and subjective experience.

In conclusion, Bill Farnsworth’s journey and advice in illustration artistry provide valuable insights for aspiring artists. His emphasis on versatility, continuous learning, and enjoying the artistic journey resonates with artists at all stages of their careers. Farnsworth’s success as an illustrator and fine artist serves as an inspiration for those looking to make their mark in the world of art.

Remember to visit the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas, to explore the rich tapestry of Western art and support these talented artists.

Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Bill Farnsworth

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Herman Walker’s Artistic Journey and Transition Across Mediums

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 with Herman Walker.

A well-known painter and sculptor, Herman Walker has had a fascinating artistic journey filled with experimentation, mentorship, and a switch between various media. Walker provided insights into his creative process and the factors that have shaped his career in a recent episode of the podcast “It’s Art, Let’s Talk About It,” which Darrell Beauchamp hosts.

Walker’s artistic journey began in college when he discovered his passion for sculpture. In 1972 and 1973, he successfully cast his first bronze sculptures, setting the stage for his future artistic endeavors. However, Walker’s artistic exploration continued beyond sculpture. He also delved into other mediums, such as sketching, painting, and watercolor.

One of the key factors that shaped Walker’s artistic journey was his early influences and mentors. Tom Ryan, in particular, played a significant role in guiding Walker and offering valuable advice. Walker emphasized the importance of learning through experience, stating, “So many of us, as we go through life, find that the best experience is just by doing it and doing lots and lots of it.” Walker relied on experimentation and learning from other artists who needed formal training to improve his craft.

Walker’s desire for greater control and detail, particularly when portraying the cowboy way of life, motivated his switch from watercolor to oil painting. He found that oils were more conducive to achieving the desired level of detail. While watercolors allowed for a looser style, oils provided the opportunity to capture the intricacies of the gear, tack, and cowboys. Walker’s dedication to accuracy and admiration for artists who work in a tighter style influenced his artistic choices.

Throughout his career, Walker actively participated in numerous Western art shows in the 70s and 80s, expanding his audience and gaining recognition. This period was an exciting time for the Western art field, with a vibrant market and ample opportunities for artists. Walker had the privilege of showing his work alongside some of the best artists in the industry, thanks to invitations to prestigious shows.

However, the late 80s brought a downturn in the art market, leading Walker to explore other careers. Despite this setback, his passion for art never waned. In 2008, he returned to the art world, utilizing online marketing to reach a wider audience. Walker emphasized the importance of personal engagement in online marketing and encouraged young artists to understand the challenges they may face.

Walker’s dedication to his craft is evident in his work ethic. He acknowledged that putting in long hours and extra effort is necessary when he is truly excited about a project. This commitment to capturing the essence of the cowboy lifestyle and telling a story through his art sets Walker apart.

In conclusion, various factors—including early influences, mentorship, experimentation, and market trends—have shaped Herman Walker’s artistic journey and transition across mediums. His dedication to capturing the essence of the cowboy lifestyle and meticulous attention to detail have made him a respected Western artist. Walker’s story inspires aspiring artists, highlighting the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and adapting to changing circumstances in the art world.

To explore Herman Walker’s artwork, visit his website at hermanwalker.com or search for “Herman Walker artist” online.

Resources:

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Herman Walker

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Phil Bob Borman – Capturing God’s Glory in Cloud Paintings

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 Phil Bob Borman.

Borman’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing change. From his early days as a cowboy pencil drawer to his current status as a renowned artist specializing in cloud paintings, Borman’s career trajectory highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and constantly evolving as an artist.

Borman’s fascination with atmospheric pressure and the glory of God’s creation is evident in his artwork, which often features elements like rain, grass, cows, and horses. For him, painting clouds is a way of capturing and celebrating God’s glory in every sky. This deep connection to his subject matter is what sets Borman apart and gives his work a unique perspective.

One of the key factors that have shaped Borman’s artistic journey is his participation in various exhibitions and workshops. He recognizes the importance of these opportunities for an artist’s growth and development. Borman’s involvement in the “Our Heavens Declare” exhibition, alongside twelve other phenomenal cloud painters, was a significant milestone in his career. The exhibition showcased the beauty and diversity of cloud paintings, and being part of such a well-received show at the Museum of Western Art was a testament to Borman’s talent and dedication.

Looking ahead, Borman plans to continue painting and revive his sculpture work. He finds joy in teaching workshops and helping aspiring artists grow, recognizing the importance of passing on knowledge and inspiring the next generation of artists. Borman’s artistic journey serves as an inspiration to artists and art enthusiasts alike, reminding us of the importance of following our passions, embracing change, and staying true to our artistic vision.

In conclusion, Phil Bob Borman’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and embracing change. His fascination with atmospheric pressure and the glory of God’s creation is beautifully captured in his cloud paintings. Through exhibitions, workshops, and the support of his wife, Borman has navigated the art industry with a balance of artistic integrity and business acumen. His commitment to his craft and unwavering intent as an artist make his work authentic and impactful. As he continues to paint and inspire others, Borman’s artistic journey serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself and constantly evolving as an artist.

Remember to visit the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas, to explore the rich tapestry of Western art and support these talented artists.

Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Phil Bob Borman

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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – Billy Schenck – Painting Contemporary 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 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, we will be exploring the artistic journeys of Billy Schenck, who has left an indelible mark on the Western art genre, pushing boundaries and creating captivating works that merge pop art with photorealism. Join us as we uncover their unique approaches, discuss their notable series, and delve into the challenges they faced in the art world.

Schenck’s artistic style is a testament to his ability to blend pop art with photorealism seamlessly. He reveals his unconventional approach to creating imagery by utilizing the paint-by-numbers technique. This technique allowed him to produce convincing images, even without traditional drawing or painting skills. His first gallery show in New York City was a resounding success, selling out before it even opened. This early triumph set the stage for a prolific career that would span over five decades.

One of Schenck’s notable series is the Phaedra series, which showcases nude cowgirls riding in the Mythic West. This series captures the essence of the Western genre while adding a contemporary twist. Additionally, Beauchamp has created captivating series centered around surfer girls and landscapes, particularly in the Southwest. Notably, he started incorporating landscapes without figures around 1999-2000, using big clouds and sweeping vistas to evoke a sense of awe and grandeur in his paintings.

Schenck’s unique artistic vision often placed him on the edge of the mainstream Western art world. He faced challenges in New York City, where Western subject matter was not considered contemporary. However, he persisted and refined his painting style, ultimately gaining recognition and exhibiting alongside renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

Schenck’s dedication to preserving and promoting Western art extends beyond his own work. He has purchased a plot of land to build the Billy Shank Museum and Foundation, which will showcase his body of work and his personal collection of contemporary Western painters. Additionally, the foundation aims to preserve a world-class collection of prehistoric pottery and the archives of the Membranes Foundation and other amateur archaeologists. This initiative provides a safe space for collectors to donate their collections, ensuring their legacy lives on.

Billy Schenck has made significant contributions to contemporary Western art, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional norms. His unique style, blending pop art with photorealism, has captivated audiences worldwide. Despite facing challenges, Schenck has left an indelible mark on the art world, showcasing the importance of preserving and promoting Western art.

Remember to visit the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas, to explore the rich tapestry of Western art and support these talented artists.

So, why should you listen to this episode? If you’re an artist yourself, or simply someone who is interested in the creative process, Schenck’s story offers inspiration and insight into what it takes to pursue a career in art. As hosted Darrell Beauchamp has noted, “We’ll talk about why talking about Western art is so important.”

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

Billy Schenck

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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

Categories
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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Kerrville Weekly News Roundup

Kerrville Weekly News Roundup: July 8, 2023

Welcome to the Kerrville Weekly News Roundup. Each week, veteran podcaster Tom Fox and his colleagues Andrew Gay and Gilbert Paiz get together to go over a couple of their favorite stories from the past week from Kerrville and the greater Hill Country. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee and listen in to get a wrap up of the Kerrville Weekly News. We each consider two of our favorite stories and talk about the upcoming weekend’s events which will enjoy or participate in this weekend.

In this episode, Tom and Andrew discuss the following stories which caught their attention over the past week.

·      Tom shouts out to Margot Newcomb for being honored by Morgan’s Wonderland Theme Park for her work in handicap accessibility. He also shouts out to the Schreiner University School of Nursing which had a 100% pass rate on National Licensure exam. Tom encourages listeners to visit the final weekend of the 40th anniversary celebration at the Museum of Western Art.

·      Andrew discusses the 4th of July Concert on the River this year which featured the Randy Rogers Band. He also talks about the Cailloux preview party for the 2023-24 arts season in Kerrville. Andrew shouts out The Lead for its photos from the event.

·      Andrew and Tom welcome the break in temperature for the weekend.

Resources

Tom Fox on LinkedIn

Gilbert Paiz on LinkedIn

Andrew Gay on LinkedIn

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

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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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It's art

It’s art, let’s talk about it – James Muir on the Importance of Finding Inspiration in 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.

Get ready for an enlightening episode of “It’s Art. Let’s talk about it” as host Darrell Beauchamp interviews artist James Muir. Sponsored by the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas, this podcast focuses on the preservation and promotion of American Western art. In this episode, Muir speaks about allegorical art, an ancient concept that speaks through symbolism to convey a story. Muir believes that symbolism is an international language that connects with spirituality and metaphysical aspects. Later in the podcast, we hear from an artist who found her true passion in sculpture at age 35 after visiting the Honshin Gallery in Sedona, Arizona. He believes that studying and understanding the truth in history is crucial for creating honest art.

Muir himself had an instant career in art when his sculpture of cavalrymen sold out within 30 days, believing that success came from a guiding hand that directed him in life. He expanded his art from depictions of courageousness to creating early monumental sculptures, such as the thirty-three-foot Christ crucifix in the Chapel of the Holy Cross and the caduceus at Texas A&M.

The importance of storytelling in an artwork is another topic covered. Muir, for example, discusses how his sculpture of military troopers being attacked during a retreat tells a story of courage in the face of danger. He strives to depict the highest and best aspects of humanity through his work. The impact of spouses in shaping artists’ careers is explored as well. Muir’s wife Linda is considered the driving force behind their work.

Here are three tips to keep in mind:

1.     First, learn about the historical importance of allegory and how it has been used over the centuries.

2.     Second, understand the purpose of symbology in art and how it enables the masses to learn about life and spirituality.

3.     Third, appreciate the hidden meanings behind the artwork that Muir creates.

As Muir states “Symbolism is an international language. It tells us stories that we cannot necessarily put into words. If you are curious about allegorical art and love to appreciate the intricate artwork that has a deep meaning behind it, this episode is highly recommended.”

 Resources

Museum of Western Art

Darrell Beauchamp on LinkedIn

James Muir

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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