Robert Tidwell, Ph.D. Interim Helen DeVitt Jones Endowed Director of Collections, Exhibits and Research
National Ranching Heritage Center Lubbock, TX, (806) 742-0498, www.ranchingheritage.org
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What event (gallery show, museum exhibit, etc.) in the next few months are you looking forward to, and why?
One of our exhibit galleries, the McKanna Gallery, will be dedicated to exhibiting a wide range of Western art and craftsmanship. This gallery will invite visitors to explore various forms of Western art and help them answer the question, “What is Western art?” On June 7 is our annual Summer Stampede Western Art & Gear Show, a show and sale featuring outstanding artists and gearmakers, live music, dinner and dancing. Detailed event information can be found at summerstampede.com
National Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock, Texas.
Can you tell us about any recent acquisitions at the museum?
We recently received two Tooter Cannon saddles that are in excellent condition. Tooter cannon saddles are highly valued and aren’t often available. These saddles represent two stages in his career and serve as a prime example of his craftsmanship. In addition, we received an extraordinary wood sculpture titled Heritage of the Wind by J. Christopher White. This piece is carved from a single juniper tree from a historically significant part of Palo Duro Canyon in Canyon, Texas. The flowing sculpture features the first few notes of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” and is the centerpiece of the McKanna Gallery.
What excites you about the future of Western art?
The range of styles and approaches to Western themes creates art that appeals to a wide range of people while also capturing the spirit of the West in ways that continue to fire the imagination.
What are you researching at the moment?
We are preparing for an exhibit of artifacts from Quanah Parker, which results in a deep dive into American Indian artistry. The design and skill in many of the pieces continues to capture the eye and draw your attention.
What is your dream exhibit to curate? Or see someone else curate?
It would be wonderful to have an exhibit that compares traditional American Indian artistry and craftsmanship with modern practitioners of those same skills, especially beadwork. —
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