A highlight of any exhibition year is experiencing exhibitions that show the breadth of individual artists’ work. And there are many of those shows opening soon.
The National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, organized the exhibition Tucker Smith: A Celebration of Nature in 2020. It ends its national tour at the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, where it is on display through January 2, 2022. It features more than 75 oils from Smith’s early work to the present. His subtle paintings of Western animals and their habitat earned him the Wyoming Governor’s Arts Award in 2008. He comments, “I believe it is necessary to experience nature firsthand in order to be able to convey it to someone else through a painting.”
Thomas Moran (1837-1926), Mount Superior, as viewed from Alta, Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah, 1879, watercolor and graphite on paper, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Fort Worth, Texas, 2020.1. From Thomas Moran: Mount Superior at Amon Carter Museum of American Art.
The Desert Caballeros Western Museum in Wickenburg, Arizona, presents Bill Anton Paints the West from December 18 through February 27, 2022. Anton was raised in Chicago but first visited the West when he was 7 years old. He later attended Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, and eventually settled in nearby Prescott. Along the way, he rode in roundups and learned to work with cattle, developing an admiration for the life of the cowboy. He comments, “I do not see myself as a biographer of the ‘cowboy.’ I know some artists feel they are recording a historical portrayal of ranch life today in the American West. But the focus of my work has always been mood and passion. If I’m recording anything, I’m recording how I feel about the West.”
The cowboy is the subject of several other exhibitions.
When the Spanish arrived in the 17th century, they established ranches on which the livestock were tended by vaqueros. In the 18th century, ranching was common in present-day Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. The photographer Werner Segarra, lived among contemporary vaqueros. The exhibition, Werner Segarra’s Vaqueros de la Cruz Del Diablo: Contemporary Photography of the Northern Mexican Cowboy, will be shown at the Briscoe Western Art Museum in San Antonio, Texas, through January 22, 2022. The museum notes, “Offering realistic moments of how they view themselves, surrounded by the tools of their trade, intertwined with the realities of their existence, the images detail a legacy that reaches back over generations and is the birthplace of the modern cowboy.”
Robert McCauley, The Only West Left is the One in Your Head, 2014, oil on canvas on panel, 36 x 24”. JKM Collection, National Museum of Wildlife Art, W2014.037.004. © Robert McCauley. From While They’re Sleeping: A Story of Bears at the National Museum of Wildlife Art
The Whitney Western Art Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming, presents Eight Seconds: Black Cowboys in America through January 7, 2022. The exhibition “explores the American Cowboy through the lens of acclaimed photographer Ivan B. McClellan. Cowboys are fluid figures represented by many genders, races and cultures—and they’re more diverse than ever before.”
Some museums are taking a broader view of the art of the West.
The Sid Richardson Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, will show selections from the museum’s collection in the exhibition Picturing the American West. The exhibition is divided into four themes: The Bison and Plains Indian Culture, Western Archetypes, Cowboys and Native Americans, and Twilight into Night. The museum notes, “While the museum holds a comprehensive group of works by Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, who therefore dominate this exhibit, the core collection is complemented by a significant group of paintings by other Western artists from the late-19th to the early-20th centuries. An additional selection of bronzes by both Remington and Russell are also part of the exhibit on loan from a private collection.”
Tucker Smith, The Refuge, 1994, oil on canvas, 36 x 120”. JKM Collection, National Museum of Wildlife Art. © 1994 courtesy of Greenwich Workshop. From Tucker Smith: A Celebration of Nature at Booth Western Art Museum
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, focuses on a specific aspect of the art of the West in New Beginnings: An American Story of Romantics and Modernists in the West. The exhibition includes “more than 100 early-20th century artworks by 70 artists, featuring signature works by well-known artists such as Oscar E. Berninghaus, Andrew Dasburg, Leon Gaspard, Victor Higgins and Will Shuster as well as works by under-recognized artists. These artists lived and worked in Northern New Mexico during the 1920s and 1930s, when Santa Fe and Taos were among the most important national and international arts colonies.” Drawn from the Tia Collection in Santa Fe, New Mexico, it continues through January 2, 2022.
Photo by Ivan McClellan. From Eight Seconds: Black Cowboys at Buffalo Bill Center of the West.
The Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth features a new acquisition in the exhibition Thomas Moran’s Mount Superior. It uses the painting as a springboard to explore “divergent depictions of the American landscape through photography, works on paper and popular culture ephemera from the period,” noting that “just out of view of this idyllic landscape are railroads, mines and quarries, and a booming metropolis.” The exhibition continues through December 12.
The National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson focuses on one animal in the exhibition While They’re Sleeping: A Story of Bears, October 22 through May 15, 2022. The museum notes, “The moods and messages of the artwork on display shifts from 1846 to 2019, demonstrating how human values and beliefs have defined and redefined bears over the past two centuries, with artists portraying them in a spectrum of roles: scientific specimens, devoted mothers, powerful predators, charismatic individuals, supernatural beings.”
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C.M. Russell Museum
400 13th Street North, Great Falls, MT 59401 • (406) 727-8787 • cmrussell.org
The award-winning C.M. Russell Museum contains more than 3,000 pieces of Western art in a complex that covers an entire city block. It encompasses 16 exhibition galleries, educational programming spaces, a dedicated research center and an impressive outdoor sculpture garden. 
Charles M. Russell (1864-1926), The Jerk Line, 1912, oil on canvas. C.M. Russell Museum Collection; Gift of Fred Birch.
With nearly 1,000 Charles M. Russell creations in their collection, the museum presents Russell’s comprehensive, very personal and authentic reflection on Western history. Also showcased are Russell’s contemporaries who have captured the traditions of North Plains Indian life, Montana wildlife, and landscapes and cowboy culture. You will discover important work by O.C. Seltzer, Winold Reiss, Joseph Henry Sharp, E. E. Heikka, Maynard Dixon, Eanger Irving Couse, Olaf Wieghorst, Henry Farny, Frank Tenney Johnson and more. 
Charles M. Russell (1864-1926), The Fireboat, 1918, oil on board. C.M. Russell Museum Collection; Gift of Mrs. Wade George in memory of Wade Hampton George.
“We welcome visitors to immerse themselves in Russell’s West at the museum and our on-site crown jewel of the Russell legacy, the original Russell House and Studio, a National Historic Landmark,” says museum representatives.
Guests not ready to return to the museum in person are encouraged to visit the Virtual Museum on our website and follow us on Facebook.
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
Selections From the North American Indian by E.S. Curtis
October 2021 – May 2022
The Sun Dance Series: Heart of the Blackfeet People by Gary Schildt
November 2021 – June 2022
Through the Lens of Joseph Henry Sharp
June – September 2022
Admission & Membership: $4 Students, $14 Adults, $11 Seniors and Veterans, FREE Active military and their families
Memberships starting at $50
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Desert Caballeros Western Museum
21 N. Frontier Street, Wickenburg, AZ 85390
(928) 684-2272 • www.westernmuseum.org
The Desert Caballeros Western Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and is known as Arizona’s most Western museum, serving 50,000 visitors a year. The museum preserves and exhibits the art and history of the Southwest and the desert frontier, and is well-known for its innovative exhibitions and programming including the annual Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West exhibition and sale.
Its world-renowned collection of American Western fine art, American Indian art and artifacts and captivating interactive exhibits, together create an unforgettable experience for visitors. The museum’s entire lower level is devoted to a re-creation of life in late territorial Wickenburg. The museum also has two stores; the Museum Store and Ranch Dressing.
Opening October 30 is the Apache Stories exhibition, with fun events planned to celebrate the rich and diverse culture of the Apache people. The exhibition shows the continuing traditions in Apache art and culture, focusing on the Apaches of Arizona. “We present the separate but related Apache tribes and their unique histories...The true Apache stories of courage and endurance are revealed over the centuries through their continuing cultural traditions and artistic expressions.”
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
Apache Stories
October 30, 2021 – October 2, 2022
Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West
Spring 2022
Bill Anton Paints the West
December 18, 2021 – February 27, 2022
Admission & Membership: $12 Adults, $10 Seniors, FREE Children (17 & under), FREE Active Duty
Membership starting at $55
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The Brinton Museum
239 Brinton Road, Big Horn, WY 82833 • (307) 672-3173
info@thebrintonmuseum.org • www.thebrintonmuseum.org
The Brinton Museum is located on the 620-acre Quarter Circle A Ranch just outside of Big Horn, Wyoming. The property, originally owned by Bradford Brinton, was dedicated as a memorial and museum by Brinton’s sister, Helen Brinton, upon her death in 1960.
A personal friend of many artists, Bradford Brinton amassed a collection of Western art, Native American art, books and other fine items during his lifetime. Much of his collection is on display in the historic ranch house. In 2015, the Forrest E. Mars Jr. Building was opened to display the Gallatin Collection of Indian Art and pieces from Bradford Brinton’s collection, including works by Ed Borein, Bill Gollings, Frederic Remington, Thomas Moran, John Mix Stanley and Winold Reiss.
The Brinton Museum also houses the largest collection of Hans Kleiber works in the world. More than just an art museum, The Brinton is also home to a preserved 1920s gentleman’s working ranch, miles of nature trails, native wildlife and birds, and glorious views of the Bighorn Mountains.
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
The Graveyard Shift – Depictions of Western Cemeteries
October 23 – December 19, 2021
17th Illustrator Show
February 10 – March 27, 2022
Bill Reid
April 2 – May 30, 2022
Admission & Membership: FREE General Admission – Courtesy of First Interstate Bank
Membership starting at $50
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Dixie State University Sears Art Museum
Eccles Fine Art Center • 225 South University Avenue, St. George, UT 84770 • (435) 652-7909 • www.searsart.com
The Sears Art Museum is located 50 minutes from Zion National Park. The beauty of this area is awe inspiring, and the museum reflects this in its wonderful space and exciting exhibits. People are attracted and appreciate their visits to the Sears to discover meaningful connections with artistic expressions and to enjoy opportunities for conversation, contemplation and a cooperative experience.
Rett Ashby, Nature’s Cathedral, oil, 23½ x 39"
This year they’re celebrating the 35th annual Robert N. and Peggy Sears Dixie Invitational Art Show and Sale, open every President’s Day weekend. The Gala and preview will be held February 18 and opens February 19 to patrons and the public through April 2, 2022. Tickets to enjoy dinner and to have the first chance to buy art can be purchased by calling. All of the art will be shown online.
Spike Ress, Winter Wonder of Zion, watercolor, 30 x 43"
The show boasts a variety of art including landscape, portrait, Western, sculpture and contemporary pieces. Patrons vie to collect art by Jeremy Winborg, Elizabeth Robbins, Shanna Kunz, Mike Malm, Julie Rogers, Spike Ress, Roland Lee, Lynn Griffin, George Handrahan, Alexander Selytin, Royden Card, Doug Adams and many of the other 120 artists.
The Sears depends on this annual show and sale to fund its continued growth and impressive history of success. “We appreciate our patrons,” says Kathy Cieslweicz, DSU Sears Art Museum director and curator.
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
The Red Dirt Girls: Peace’d Together
October 1, 2021 – January 14, 2022
Dixie State University Art Department Showcase
April 22 – May 6, 2022
One X One for the Sears: a fundraiser for everyone.
June 10 - August 19, 2022
Admission & Membership: FREE for all
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Museum of Western Art
1550 Bandera Highway, Kerrville, TX 78028
(830) 896-2553 • www.museumofwesternart.com
The Museum of Western Art’s permanent collection is a treasure trove of works from both historic and contemporary masters. Historic works in the collection include those from George Phippen, Fred Harman, Will James, Henry Farney, G. Harvey and Oscar Berninghaus.
Contemporary artists include Oreland Joe, Bill Owen, Roy Andersen, Robert Pummill and many more. An onsite Western research library includes 6,000 volumes and periodicals, and the Journey West Children’s Gallery features an interactive display of life on the Western trail.
“The Museum of Western Art is looking forward to a very exciting 2022,” says executive director Darrell Beauchamp. “We will have exceptional exhibitions, along with workshops and special events throughout the year. We encourage all Western art lovers to visit us in beautiful Texas Hill Country, just an hour’s drive from San Antonio.”
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
38th Annual Roundup Exhibition and Sale
Through October 3, 2021
Works by the American Plains Artist, Highlighting the American Plains through Art
February 26 - March 26, 2022
The Heavens Declare
April 1 - July 9, 2022
Admission & Membership: $7 Adults & Seniors; $5 Children (9-17); $5 College Students; FREE Children (8 & under); FREE Active Duty; FREE For Members
Membership starting at $50
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Phippen Museum
4701 Highway 89 North, Prescott AZ 86301
(928) 778-1385 • www.phippenartmuseum.org
The Phippen Museum focuses on the art and heritage of the American West and features many pieces by its namesake, George Phippen, co-founder and first president of the Cowboy Artists of America. In addition to studio replicas, a Western heritage gallery and more than 14,000 square feet of gallery space, the museum also includes the Ray Swanson Gallery and the Solon H. Borglum Collection.
Award-winning artists Marlin Rotach and Don Weller have collaborated to create a special exhibition that includes fascinating pieces of fine art by 14 of America’s most talented watercolor artists. Titled The River Flows: Watercolors of the American West, this traveling exhibition will premiere at the Phippen and be on display starting October 2, 2021.
Patrons who are interested in learning more about George Phippen and the Phippen Museum can access general information, artist biographies, artwork, virtual tours and educational videos on their website. As of August 18, the Phippen Museum asks unvaccinated guests to wear face masks and practice social distancing.
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
The River Flows: Watercolors of the American West
October 2, 2021 – February 6, 2022
Admission & Membership: $10 Adults; $8 Seniors and Veterans; $5 Students; FREE Children (12 & under)
Membership starting at $40
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National Museum of Wildlife Art
2820 Rungius Road, Jackson, WY 83001(307) 733-5771 • www.wildlifeart.org
Founded in 1987, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is a world-class museum and nonprofit located in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The museum’s collection boasts more than 5,000 artworks representing wild animals from around the world.
Featuring work by prominent artists such as N.C. Wyeth, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Bob Kuhn, Albert Bierstadt and Carl Rungius, the museum’s unsurpassed permanent collection chronicles much of the history of wildlife in art, from 2500 B.C. to the present. Built into a hillside overlooking the National Elk Refuge, the museum received the designation “National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States” by order of Congress in 2008. 
Bart Walter, Wapiti Trail, modeled 2005, cast 2007, bronze. Anonymous gift, National Museum of Wildlife Art. © Bart Walter.
Rosa Bonheur (1822-1899), King of the Forest, 1897, pastel on linen, 60 x 44.” Purchased with funds generously donated by the Robert S. and Grayce B. Kerr Foundation. Courtesy National Museum of Wildlife Art.
In addition to the impressive galleries, the museum also includes a museum shop, interactive children’s gallery, Palate restaurant and the outdoor Sculpture Trail. Located just two-and-a-half miles North of the Jackson Town Square, and two miles from the gateway of Grand Teton National Park, the museum is ideally situated.
The National Museum of Wildlife Art is proud to welcome more than 60,000 visitors through its doors annually, including more than 8,000 children. For visitors who prefer to engage virtually this year, we offer a wide range of the collection digitally on our website.
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
While They’re Sleeping: A Story of Bears
October 22, 2021 - May 15, 2022
National Geographic: 50 Greatest Wildlife Photographs
November 6, 2021 - April 24, 2022
Bonheur & Beyond: Celebrating Women in Wildlife Art
June 6 - August 29, 2022
Admission & Membership: $15 Adults, with discounts for seniors, military and children
Membership starting at $50
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Steamboat Art Museum807 Lincoln Avenue, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
(970) 870-1755 • www.steamboatartmuseum.org
Housed in the iconic First National Bank/Rehder Building (1905/1920), on the National Registry of Historic Places, Steamboat Art Museum is located in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The museum presents three new exhibitions annually, celebrating the work of living masters as well as historic work relevant to the culture and heritage of the West. The recent renovation provides 5,000 square feet of open exhibition space, an exquisite setting for the rotating exhibitions. 
SAM OPA Exhibition. Courtesy Steamboat Art Museum“We welcome visitors from around the world to our rural corner of Northwest Colorado and offer them the unique opportunity to experience the culture and environment of the West through our varied exhibits,” says executive director Betse Grassby.
Major Upcoming Exhibitions
Portraits of the American West
December 2021
Oil Painters of American National Exhibition
Summer 2022
Admission & Membership: FREE for the general public
Membership starting at $50 —
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