Cowboy
artists corral crowds at museum
VALLEY
– When crowds of art‑hungry cowboys form outside
the Phoenix Art Museum in October twilight, it can only
mean one thing. The 41st Annual Cowboy Artists of America
Exhibition and Sale is about to commence.
On
Oct. 20, as the clock approaches 6 p.m., more than 500
people will await the opening of the museum’s doors. Having
paid $250 for the privilege, attendees will catch a first
glimpse of 132 art pieces created by 22 active members
of the Cowboy Artists of America (CAA). They have 30 minutes
to view the art before a horn blows and the frenzy of
the bidding begins.
Bids
are accepted for a mere one hour after the sounding of
the horn and then the excitement it’s all over. According
to the museum, many of the works sell for prices in the
six‑figures. Last year’s gross sales reportedly
topped $2.3 million.
The ever popular western realism is the style, and the
works of some of the greats will be up for bid. Among
those featured: The late Joe Beeler, one of the founding
members of CAA who passed away in April; Tucson artist
Harley Brown, recently inducted into the CAA; Wickenburg’s
Bill Owen; Texas artist Martin Grelle; and Dave Powell,
who, in addition to painting, serves as a technical advisor
for films and television, including such hits as “Silverado”
and “Lonesome Dove.”
