IT'S LIKE SAYING GOODBYE TO AN OLD FRIEND

This past weekend, I worked a shift at the National Cowboy Museum where I serve as a volunteer. I love working as a greeter because it never fails that I meet people from literally all over the world. On Saturday afternoon, I had the opportunity to welcome folks from Poland, Michigan, Arizona, and some first time visitors from right here in Oklahoma City. Many art lovers came to the museum to see the Prix de West Invitational show before it closed forever on September 9th.

After I finished with my duties, I walked through the galleries to view the artwork entered in the Prix de West. As I stood before Curt Walters’ paintings of the Grand Canyon, I felt tears sting my eyes. Even after looking at the pieces he entered in this year’s invitational at least a dozen times, I still experience the emotion I did the first time I saw them.

I continued through the galleries and said silent goodbyes to Howard Terpning’s piece entitled Lady of the House which sold for over $750,000 at the silent auction, Craig Tennent’s pieces with water features that look incredibly real, and Gerald Balciar’s stunning sculptures, to name just a few.

Because most of the artwork were sold to private individuals, I know that it is likely I will never see the original art again. That truly saddens me. Many pieces in the Prix de West spoke to me personally and brought me so much pleasure and enjoyment.

Then, I reminded myself that at this very moment, these same artists are now working on pieces for next year’s invitational show and sale. I’m sure I will be just as excited next year to see the amazing works of Martin Grelle and Wilson Hurley as I was this year. So, I await in great anticipation to fall in love all over again.