“Texas Tumbleweeds”
It’s a good thing we caught our breaths over the Holidays because the New Year hit us like a West Texas Wind. With the good fortune of clear highways, we have already traveled nearly 7,000 miles, exhibited at 3 shows and appeared at an event at the University of Texas . It feels like we had the sun on our faces and the wind at our back the entire way.
January Shows
The Dallas Safari Club gave us a giant jumpstart on the year with its annual convention. The show has evolved into a significant presentation of over 700 exhibits of outfitters, guides, imported décor items and artists. We introduced my newest piece, a whitetail buck in rut entitled “American Classic”, and it was well received based on sales and orders taken. The convention committee members always make us feel like family. They set the mood for high spirits and grand reunions. I can’t imagine a finer way to begin a new year.
“American Classic”
Re-charging the art, and our batteries, we headed for the Black Tie and Boots Inaugural Ball in Washington , D.C. Held by the Texas State Society since 1905, this event is the ultimate bi-partisan celebration of the inauguration of the President. This was our second time to be asked to participate in the Texas Fair and Market, now a 2-day presentation of a select few of Texas ’ finest craftsmen. Kicking up our heels in our best Texas style kept the winter storm outside at bay while everyone at the Ball inside celebrated with true Texas gusto.
Staying just ahead of icy roads, we raced home to reload the car one more time and then head in the opposite direction. We had just barely enough time to reach Reno , NV for the opening of the Safari Club International convention. Surrounded by the images and accents of Africa an alluring stage was set for my art. It is such fun to reconnect with my family of collectors and also be delighted by the people who found my work there for the first time. I would like to give my gratitude and wholehearted thanks to all of you for your part in making January 2005 a stellar month.
Unveiling of “Legends In Training”
In the midst of our marathon on wheels, the ceremony to unveil my piece, “Legends In Training”, was held at the University of Texas . Permanently installed in the Longhorn Lounge in Jester Hall, (adjacent to the entrance to the athletes dining hall), it is enlarged to a mammoth 15 ft. long by 6 ft. tall and engulfs the entire room. Attended by students and faculty alike, I didn’t fully grasp the reality of the event until I could step back and look at the ceremony photos. As the second addition to the University’s Longhorn Roundup of Art, it is an honor to have my work selected and displayed there for many years to come.
Mr. John T. Baker, Sherry, and Dr. Floyd Hoelting
Depicting Longhorn calves, “Legends In Training” represents the turmoil of youth as it faces the challenges of life head-on. There are always those who start the fracas, those who rush into the fray and others who study it before making up their minds. As the mascot of the University of Texas , the Texas Longhorn is more than just a symbol; it is a metaphor for life. We are considering a special poster edition of this piece with a remarque to commemorate the University’s Rose Bowl victory. Had you noticed the second calf from the left has what appears to be an outline of the State of Texas on its forehead?
“The Lady of the Alamo , Her Name Is Courage”
I am happy to announce that the original “Lady of the Alamo ” has found a home. Seen on display at the Black Tie and Boots Inaugural Ball, her haunting story touched many people. My portrayal of Susanna Dickinson now graces the beautiful home of Wally & Sherri Emery, where they feel her strength every time they look at her.
My connection with the Alamo will continue through my prints and the eventual creation of a second work. Like my Longhorn series, the bond that has been developed will, I am certain, take me down unexpected paths. I am both curious and awed by what may lay ahead of me and the Alamo .
New Works Underway
Watch for the little guy shown below to appear in my next piece along with two of his brothers, they are from sketches done in Tanzania ’s Serengetti in 2004. Completion and introduction is scheduled for April.
Lion Cub doing what lions do best…Sleep
Upcoming Shows
Texas Indian and Southwest Art Show
Convention Center, Arlington , Texas (next door to the Arlington Ballpark)
April 1, 2, 3, 2005
Show Hours: Friday, 1pm to 8pm ; Saturday 10am to 8pm ; Sunday 10am to 6pm .
Cottonwood Spring Art Festival
Cottonwood Park , Richardson , Texas (on Beltline Rd. just East of Coit)
May 7, 8, 2005
Show Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 9am to 7pm
Texas Arts & Craft Show
River Star Arts & Event Park , Kerrville , Texas (Fairgrounds, SE of town)
May 27,28, 29, & 30, 2005
Show Hours: Friday 4pm to 8pm ; Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm , and Monday 10am to 4pm