Category: Museum News

Briscoe Western Art Museum celebrates National Day of the Cowboy

Briscoe’s Day of the Cowboy celebration will feature free admission, live music, cowboy games, food trucks, art, and more. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Celebrating the legacy of the cowboy, cowgirl, and vaquero, the Briscoe Western Art Museum presents its National Day of the Cowboy celebration on Saturday, July 23, 10a.m. – 5p.m. at the museum’s campus on the banks of the River Walk. The free community event, which includes free admission to the museum and its exhibitions, features indoor and outdoor activities for cowpokes of all ages, with live music in the museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden, a chuck wagon with tasty cowboy treats, artist demonstrations and hands-on arts, crafts and games for all ages to enjoy. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

Cowboy Fun Under the Sun – And Throughout the Museum

One of the Briscoe’s most treasured annual events, National Day of the Cowboy works to highlight, share and preserve America’s cowboy culture and pioneer heritage. It was founded in 2005 as a day to celebrate and preserve the heritage of the American cowboy, cowgirl, and vaquero in the United States. The state of Texas declared it a day of honor in 2015 and the Briscoe annually hosts a celebration event, throwing open the doors of the museum to honor the cowboy, cowgirl, and vaquero in us all.

The celebration pairs perfectly with its fantastic summer exhibition The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America. Premiering at the Briscoe and including works from 17 public and private collections, The Sons of Charlie Russell features 70 works of art showcasing the forefathers of Western art and how their great works provide foundations, traditions and ideals for today’s contemporary artists. On display through September 5, the exhibition is the first and only time these works will be viewed together. While visitors may not be able to rope and ride alongside the cowboys and ranch hands often depicted in Western art, thanks to immersive technology in the exhibition, visitors are able to see themselves as shadow outlines in the paintings, striking poses as they add themselves to the scene.

Other National Day of the Cowboy Celebration highlights include:

  • Free admission and activities for the whole family, including scavenger hunts through the Briscoe. Museum volunteers will be on hand to share details about the museum’s art and artifacts, highlighting works that relate to lives and work of cowboys, cowgirls and vaqueros.
  • Cowpoke games and crafts, where you can outfit yer’self in a bolo tie and spurs, try your hand at silversmith etching, make a stick pony and try out some barrel racing, learn how to rope and ride, herd some balloon animals, do a little bull riding, toss horseshoes, craft a cowhand puppet, and more.
  • Demonstrations of how to craft the essential tools of the cowboy trade by members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association of saddle making, braiding, and forging.
    • See the leather work and tooling that goes into making a saddle with saddle maker Troy West.
    • Learn the art of rawhide braiding from braider Leland Hensley.
    • Watch forger Wilson Capron shape metal into bits, spurs and more with a live forging demonstration in the Briscoe’s McNutt Sculpture Garden.
  • Western art brought to life through a live sculpting demonstration by Jason Scull, one of the Cowboy Artists featured in The Sons of Charlie Russell.
  • Lil Partners Reading Zone, offering up cowboy tales. Sit a spell and enjoy a book reading with Emily Wilson, the Briscoe’s Curator of Art. Wilson’s children’s book, “Charlie Russell and the Gnomes of Bull Head Lodge,” crafts a modern fairy tale based on the life of Charles M. Russell (1864–1926), the namesake of The Sons of Charlie Russell Stop by to learn the art of gnome-making so you can craft your own cowboy gnomes.
  • Storytime at the Stagecoach, featuring the story of Mary Fields, the first African American woman stagecoach driver. For many years, Fields traveled the West with her pet eagle, never losing a single horse or package. Hear her story as Antoinette Lakey reads from “Fearless Mary: Mary Fields, American Stagecoach Driver.” A community leader, researcher, and dramatist, Antoinette Lakey currently serves as Artistic Director for Teatro Anansi, an organization with a mission to connect, celebrate and commemorate African American theatre, performing arts and history within the greater San Antonio community.
  • Chuck wagon cooking with samples of peach cobbler and beans, along with food truck grub available to satisfy any hungry cowpokes.
  • Surrounded by the beauty of the garden’s fantastic bronze sculptures and lush greenery, kick back and soak in the sounds of West with live music throughout the day, including singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Clint Tomerlin.

Preserving and presenting the art, history and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is located on the San Antonio River Walk at 210 W. Market Street in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building. Named in honor of the late Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife, Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum includes the three-story Jack Guenther Pavilion, used for event rentals and programs, and the outdoor McNutt Sculpture Garden.

Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

The Briscoe heats up with sizzling events all summer long

Events at the Briscoe include artist demonstrations, paint-alongs, talks, movies, and family activities. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Fathers, sons and tons of fun await everyone at the Briscoe Western Art Museum this summer. Featuring the fantastic summer exhibition The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America, the Briscoe is hosting an array of programming to allow everyone to step into the West from the heart of the River Walk. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

Premiering at the Briscoe and including works from 17 public and private collections, The Sons of Charlie Russell features 70 works of art showcasing the forefathers of Western art and how their great works provide foundations, traditions and ideals for today’s contemporary artists. On display through September 5, the exhibition is the first and only time these works will be viewed together. To accompany the exhibition, the Briscoe is hosting a summer of programming that brings Western art to life through artist talks, demonstrations, and more. 

The summer line-up includes:

Cowboy Creations:  Learn from Cowboy Artists

Bringing the art of The Sons of Charlie Russell to life, members of the Cowboy Artists of America are appearing in a series of demonstrations and talks throughout the exhibition. Guests can enjoy meeting and watching these talented cowboy artists share the processes behind their work. All sessions are included in general museum admission.

  • Saturday June 25 – Mikel Donahue
  • Saturday August 6 – Chad Poppleton (Paint-along)          
  • Saturday July 23, 10a.m. – 3p.m. – Jason Scull (Sculpture demonstration, part of the Briscoe’s National Day of the Cowboy Celebration)
  • Saturday August 27, 10a.m. – 11:30a.m. – Bruce Greene (part of The Lessons of Our Fathers Panel)
  • Saturday September 3, 11a.m. – 1p.m. – Teal Blake (Paint-along)
  • Saturday September 3, 11a.m. – 3p.m. – Jason Scull (Sculpture Demonstration)

STEAMing into the West with The Sons of Charlie Russell

Families and visitors of all ages are invited to learn about the American West through the works featured in The Sons of Charlie Russell during the museum’s “Full STEAM Ahead” series on the third Saturday of each month. From transportation and weather to animals, astronomy and engineering, each program explores an aspect of life in the West to engage and inspire learning. Full STEAM Ahead is included with museum general admission. Children 12 and under receive free admission to the Briscoe.

  • Saturday June 18, 11a.m. – 1p.m. – Full STEAM Ahead:  Red Moon – Participants will learn about the lunar eclipse, and the significance the moon had on the people of the American West. Guests will also learn and practice perspective and contrast in creating art, exploring “Red Moon,” by CAA member Phil Epp and featured in The Sons of Charlie Russell. Children and families will paint their own fizzy moons using special combinations of baking soda and paint to create uniquely textured and colorful moons.
  • Saturday July 16, 11a.m. – 1p.m. – Full STEAM Ahead:  All A-Gnome – Families will make their own gnomes inspired by the beloved children’s book “Charlie Russell and the Gnomes of Bullhead Lodge” by renowned author and Briscoe curator Emily Wilson. Wilson curated The Sons of Charlie Russell exhibition.
  • Saturday August 20, 11a.m. – 1p.m. – Full STEAM Ahead:  Whimsical Windmills – While conservation and renewable energy efforts may seem like new solutions to the energy crisis, cowboys and settlers alike used renewable energy long before access to gas and electricity was ever invented. Guests will learn how windmills were some of our first sources of alternative energy.

What is a Western? Summer Film Series

The Briscoe’s popular Summer Film Series returns with a question:  What is a Western? What are the elements of a Western and how has the Western been re-interpreted through the years? The first film in the series will explore the traditional components of Western cinema. A short presentation discussing the foundations of the Western will begin at 1p.m., followed immediately by the screening. Each film is included in general museum admission, with free brews courtesy of Ranger Creek Brewery. Popcorn, drinks and snacks will be available for purchase.

  • Sunday June 19, 1p.m. “The Searchers” – In the 1956 movie considered by many to be the greatest Western ever made, John Wayne stars as a post-Civil War veteran on a journey to find his niece after Comanche Native Americans kidnapped her. Its influence is reflected in the works of Martin Scorsese, George Lucas, Steven Spielberg and other critical filmmakers.
  • Sunday July 10, 1p.m. “Dances With Wolves” – In his directorial debut and breakout role, Kevin Costner stars as a post-Civil War veteran who comes into contact with the Lakota while on assignment in South Dakota. The 1990 film was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning seven, including Best Picture and Best Director, and received Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.
  • Sunday August 21, 1p.m. “Wind River” – In this tense neo-western thriller, Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen star as a U.S. Fish and Wildlife hunter and an FBI agent investigating a murder on the Wind River Indian Reservation. The 2017 film was “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan’s directorial debut.

Books and Brews:  Briscoe Book Club

  • Thursday July 14, 6p.m. – Briscoe Book Club: “No Country for Old Men” by Cormac McCarthy

Weathered Souls Brewery, 606 Embassy Oaks #500, San Antonio, 78216

Join the Briscoe Book Club for a lively chat in a laid-back social gathering as we explore significant works of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction inspired by the vast and varied experiences of the American West. We will discuss a new book each quarter. Books are available for purchase at the Museum Store, or you may reserve a copy for check out through the San Antonio Public Library system before each meeting. There is no charge to participate in the book club. Reserve your spot by registering online.

Free Cowboy Fun:  National Day of the Cowboy Celebration

Tippin’ its hat and celebrating the legacy of the cowboy, cowgirl and vaquero, the Briscoe Western Art Museum presents its annual National Day of the Cowboy celebration on Saturday, July 23, 10a.m. – 4p.m. at the Briscoe. The free community event, which includes free admission to the museum and its exhibitions, features indoor and outdoor activities for cowpokes of all ages. This year’s celebration will feature The Sons of Charlie Russell, with artist demonstrations to include leatherworking, metalsmithing and more. Saddle up with your family and head west for a day you will not forget.

The Lessons of Our Fathers:  Panel and Artist Presentation

With The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America, the Briscoe Western Art Museum casts a spotlight on the history and significance of the Cowboy Artists of America and its efforts to maintain and evolve the style and subject matter of traditional Western art. The museum is hosting a panel of Western art scholars to discuss the importance of preserving traditions and the necessity for tradition to evolve and undergo revision to remain relevant in a changing world. The panel will also examine the CAA’s success at executing its mission: to authentically preserve and perpetuate the culture of Western life through fine art. The panel will be moderated by Emily Wilson, Curator of Art for the Briscoe Western Art Museum and the curator of The Sons of Charlie Russell. The panel is Saturday, August 27, 2p.m  – 4p.m.  

Before the panel discussion at 10a.m. – 10:30a.m., CAA artist Bruce Greene, the 2022 President of the CAA, will do a presentation detailing his journaling techniques and how he uses his journal to help with the accuracy of his art Both the presentation and the panel are included in museum general admission.

210 West:  Gallery Talks

Join the Briscoe for in-gallery chats featuring selected works from The Sons of Charlie Russell. Using the exhibition gallery guide, Curator of Art Emily Wilson will provide an overview of the tools and strategies used to evaluate narrative art. Guests will leave with a deeper appreciation of the artistic strategy, methods and design choices made by the artists. Gallery talks are included in general admission and start at 1p.m.

  • June 24, July 8, Aug. 12

The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America is supported in part by Jan McCaleb Elliott, the Eddie Basha Collection, Mr. and Mrs. Marrs McLean Bowman, The Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundation of 1992, the Klesse Foundation, Jessica Elliott Middleton, Debbie and John T. Montford, and Western Art Collector.

Admission to the Briscoe Western Art Museum is always free for children 12 and under and for active duty military members. The museum is proud to participate in Museums For All, Blue Star Museums and Bank of America Museums on Us. The Briscoe is located on the south end of the River Walk, near the Arneson River Theatre and La Villita, with convenient parking at the Riverbend Garage directly adjacent to the museum or one of many downtown surface lots. Museum hours, parking and admission details are available online.

 

Free admission to San Antonio Museum of Art for military members and their families

A Blue Star Museum partner, SAMA will extend free admission for eligible families for up to five guests. Photo: San Antonio Museum of Art, used with permission.

Kicking off this Memorial Day, active-duty military members (including National Guard and Reserve) and their families of up to five people can enjoy free admission to the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). As a designated Blue Star Museum, SAMA offers this free admission for service members who present their military ID from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year, so those who cannot make it in May will still have ample opportunity to enjoy all that SAMA has to offer all summer long. More information on SAMA or the Blue Star Museums program is available online. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2022)

Offer is valid Monday, May 30, 2022 – Monday, September 5, 2022 for active-Duty Military Members and their families.

San Antonio Museum of Art
200 West Jones Avenue
San Antonio, TX 78215

The San Antonio Museum of Art serves as a forum to explore and connect with art that spans the world’s geographies, artistic periods, genres, and cultures. Its collection contains nearly 30,000 words representing 5,000 years of history in the historic former Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of San Antonio’s River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is committed to promoting the rich cultural heritage and life of the city. The Museum hosts hundreds of events and public programs each year, including concerts, performances, tours, lectures, symposia, and interactive experiences. As an active civic leader, the Museum is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the city and the region, and to supporting its creative community.

New exhibit at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America premieres at the Briscoe on May 27 and runs until September 5, 2022. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

A cowboy saddles up his horse, drives cattle from one pasture to another, gets down from his horse, and picks up a paintbrush. He is not doing typical ranch work as he stands in front of an easel, painting a scene inspired by the trail. He is authentically preserving and perpetuating Western life’s culture through fine art. Dedicated cowboy artists are the foundation and the future of Western art, showcased at the Briscoe Western Art Museum May 27 – September 5 with the premiere of  The Sons of Charlie Russell:  Cowboy Artists of America. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

An art form as uniquely American as jazz music, Western art has long defined the American West worldwide. Illustrating the lives, landscape, and wildlife that define the West fueled storied artists like Charles M. Russell, Frederic Remington, Edward Borein, W.R. Leigh, and Frank Tenney Johnson. Together, they then defined the look and style of traditional Western art and inspired the Cowboy Artists of America (CAA).

Spotlighting those founding fathers of Western art alongside the CAA artists who have safeguarded the traditional style of the genre, The Sons of Charlie Russell traces the roots and successive artwork of the Cowboy Artists of America and defines a core set of criteria for what constitutes traditional Western art. Encompassing 70 paintings, sculptures and works on paper dating from 1890 to the present day, the exhibition includes works typically only seen in private collections and never before exhibited together. Displaying the strength and vibrancy of the genre through the masterpieces of 40 artists, The Sons of Charlie Russell offers a rare opportunity to see contemporary art along with historical works.

Curated by Emily Wilson, the Curator of Art for the Briscoe, The Sons of Charlie Russell features works from 17 lenders including the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, the Booth Western Art Museum, the Eddie Basha Collection, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and the Sid Richardson Museum, as well as private lenders from Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming, making the exhibition the first and only time these works will be viewed together. Nine of the featured pieces are sourced from the Briscoe’s permanent collection.

Shadows of the West:  Interactive Elements Add to the Experience

While visitors may not be able to rope and ride alongside the cowboys and ranch hands often depicted in Western art, thanks to immersive technology in the exhibition, The Sons of Charlie Russell allows visitors to literally add themselves to the scene. Visitors can virtually step into three works featured in the exhibition: “Rawhide Rhapsody by Charlie Dye (1906-1972),” “Texas Cattleman – Oil Man” by George Phippen (1915-1966), and “Pony Tracks and Empty Saddles” by Tom Lovell (1909-1997). Visitors will be able to see themselves as shadow outlines in the paintings, striking poses as they add themselves to the scene and find responsiveness to a few actions – such as strumming a guitar.

To help visitors learn more about Western art, the exhibition’s guide gives visitors the skills to interpret and evaluate works in the genre. After touring the exhibition, visitors can apply their art evaluation skills and vote on which art best illustrates the four categories explored in the guide: originality and uniqueness, technique and application, composition and subject matter, and aesthetic awareness. Different paintings will be featured throughout the exhibition’s run, allowing visitors to evaluate new paintings each month.

Cowboy Artists of America:  Riding Together

Author and Western art scholar Byron Price’s book inspired the exhibition’s title, “The Sons of Charlie Russell.” The book commemorates 50 years of the Cowboy Artists of America, a membership organization of individual artists committed to authentically preserving and perpetuating the culture of Western life through art. Members of the CAA work to ensure authentic representations of the life of the West past and present. Many of these accomplished, award-winning artists are cowboys themselves, living the cowboy life as they work their own land and cattle.

The Sons of Charlie Russell Opening Celebration

To mark the exhibition’s opening, the Briscoe is hosting a series of events May 26-28, followed by monthly gallery talks and art demonstrations featuring current CAA members, including the museum’s annual National Day of the Cowboy celebration on July 23.

Opening weekend events include:

  • The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America Exhibition Preview Party

Thursday, May 26, 6p.m. to  8p.m.

Help the Briscoe kick off the summer showcasing the foundation and future of Western art alongside members of the Cowboy Artists of America and Michael Duchemin, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Briscoe. The event includes complimentary beer, wine, specialty cocktails and light bites. Free for Briscoe members and $45 for non-members. In addition to enjoying the exhibition, guests may tour the museum from 5:30p.m. to 7p.m. Tickets are available online. 

  • “The Sons of Charlie Russell: Celebrating Fifty Years of the Cowboy Artists of America” Book Signing with Byron Price

Thursday, May 26, 5:15p.m. to 5:45p.m.

Friday, May 27, 10a.m. to 10:45a.m.

Byron Price will be signing copies of his book “The Sons of Charlie Russell,” the inspiration behind the Briscoe’s exhibition. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Cowboy Artists of America, Price details the organization’s founding to perpetuate the history, romance, and significance of the American West. The stories of these cowboy artists come alive with essays, photographs and beautiful images of their work. Available for purchase in the Museum Store and online.

  • An Enduring Desire: Tradition and the Cowboy Artists of America

Lunch and Curator’s Tour

Friday, May 27, 11a.m. to 2p.m.

Join Emily Wilson, the Briscoe’s Curator of Art and the curator of The Sons of Charlie Russell for an in-depth look at the exhibition, detailing how traditional Western art represents an enduring desire for continuity, stability, and a fixed identity of what it means to be an American. Wilson will focus on the ties between CAA artists and historical artists of the American West, examining the artistic choices made by members navigating between cohesion and individuality and tradition and innovation in pursuing the work of creating traditional Western art. The lunch begins at 11a.m., followed by the tour at 1p.m. Tickets are $50 for Briscoe members, $60 for non-members and are available online.

  • Boots, Chaps, and Cowboy Crafts:  Family Art Activities

Saturday, May 28, 10a.m. to 1p.m.    

Explore America’s cowboy culture and heritage with hands-on activities available for visitors to celebrate the opening of The Sons of Charlie Russell. Crafts include Make Your Own Spurs, Make Your Own Paper Bag Cowhand and Hands-on-chaps, cowboy hat, and lasso. Included in general museum admission.

  • Cowboy Creations:  Demonstration and Talk with C. Michael Dudash

Saturday, May 28, 10a.m. to 4:30p.m.

A member of Cowboy Artists of America since 2016, C. Michael Dudash trained in the fine arts before working in classic illustration and gaining a prestigious and national reputation. In 2002, he left his illustration work behind and became a full-time painter in the fine art world. Hundreds of collectors and corporations have his paintings in their permanent collections, as well as The Booth Museum, the James Western Art Museum and the Briscoe. Included in museum general admission.

10a.m. to 1p.m. Live Painting Demonstration:  Narrative Western Painting

Dudash will demonstrate and discuss the various approaches and painting techniques he uses to create his narrative western paintings. He will teach how to create a successful painting through dynamic design by prioritizing the position of the subjects and elements, effectively posing figures and animals, how to use color and value, making proper landscape choices, and adding “atmosphere and dust” to give a work of art an emotional lift.

2:30p.m. to 4:30p.m. Talk by C. Michael Dudash, “Illustrations’ Influence on Western Art”

Dudash will share illustration examples from the late 1800s to the year 2000 that have influenced Western Art’s biggest names and trends throughout the last 150 years. Understanding this subject will enhance one’s appreciation and enjoyment of the contemporary Western art being created today.

The Sons of Charlie Russell: Cowboy Artists of America is supported in part by Jan McCaleb Elliott, the Eddie Basha Collection, Mr. and Mrs. Marrs McLean Bowman, The Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundation of 1992, the Klesse Foundation, Jessica Elliott Middleton, Debbie and John T. Montford, Western Art Collector.

Preserving and presenting the art, history and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is located on the San Antonio River Walk at 210 W. Market Street in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building. Named in honor of the late Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife, Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum includes the three-story Jack Guenther Pavilion, used for event rentals and programs, and the outdoor McNutt Sculpture Garden.

Celebrate Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Month at San Antonio Museum of Art

Celebrate with a Family Day on Sunday May 1, 2022. Photo: San Antonio Museum of Art, used with permission.

The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) invites families to celebrate the first day of Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Month with Chinese Lion Dancers, gallery games, special performances, and delicious food during Family Day on Sunday, May 1, 2022 from 11a.m. to 3p.m. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2022)

Admission to the fun-filled experience at SAMA is free for residents of Bexar County between 10a.m.–12p.m., and children ages 12 and under are always free. Activities will begin with an opening ceremony.

Scheduled Performances:  

  • Remarks and Opening Ceremony I 11a.m.
  • Chinese Fan Dancers I 11:20a.m.
  • Vietnamese Association Dancers I 11:40a.m.
  • Lion Dancers I Noon and 2p.m.
  • Dragon Dancers I 12:30p.m. and 1:30p.m. 
  • Mao Dance I 1p.m.
  • Hawaiian Dancers | 2:30p.m.

Throughout the day, SAMA will offer an array of activities including mock porcelain painting and expressive mask creation; Japanese, Chinese, and Oceania Gallery Games; and interactive calligraphy demonstrations. Visitors who work up an appetite can head to the Sari-Sari Filipino Restaurant and Bakery and Aloha Kitchen food trucks, which will be serving up authentic flavors onsite. 

Wendy Red Star-inspired workshops at San Antonio Museum of Art

San Antonio Museum of Art’s Photography Workshop: The Visualization of Identity with local artist Mari Hernandez will be held on Saturday April 23, 2022. Photo: San Antonio Museum of Art, used with permission.

In support of Wendy Red Star’s “A Scratch on the Earth” exhibit, the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) is hosting two interactive events encouraging self-discovery and worldly exploration. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2022)

Travel inward at SAMA’s Photography Workshop: The Visualization of Identity with local artist Mari Hernandez on Saturday, April 23, from 1p.m. – 4p.m. Guests will be given the knowledge and space to contemplate their identities and histories to create a portrait of self, a theme seen frequently throughout Red Star’s current work on display. Participants are asked to bring their phone with a working camera, a tripod and any personal objects such as clothing and props they would like to include in their portrait. After drawing connections to the provided artworks, participants can execute their vision on the grounds of the San Antonio Museum of Art. Tickets are available for purchase here starting at $50 for members and $60 for non-members. 

On Friday, April 29 from 5:30p.m. – 7p.m., art and culinary experiences converge at SAMA’s River Pavilion for a culinary journey with Chef Rebe Mariposa. This special interactive exhibition introduces duos to a personal connection to the land through food and native ingredients. Participants will create their own delicious amaranth polenta accompanied by various other natively-grown ingredients such as mesquite, juniper berries, pecans, and chile pequin. Participants will end the night with an understanding of the correlation between access to food and the knowledge of how to use wild ingredients to create meals. Tickets are available for purchase here, and prices are based on attendance for two, starting at $50 for members and $60 for non-members. 

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

The Briscoe Western Art Museum presents The Poetry of Art: National Poetry Month Celebration and Reading. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Celebrate National Poetry Month by enjoying an afternoon of poetry inspired by art as the Briscoe Western Art Museum hosts “The Poetry of Art:  National Poetry Month Celebration and Reading” in honor of San Antonio’s 2022 Ekphrastic Poetry Contest on Sunday, April 10, 2p.m. – 4p.m. The free reading and celebration is part of National Poetry Month San Antonio and will be held in the Briscoe’s McNutt Sculpture Garden, 210 W. Market Street, San Antonio. Admission to the reading is free. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

Showcasing poetry inspired by select artworks at the Briscoe Western Art Museum, the McNay Art Museum, Ruby City, the San Antonio Museum of Art, and the Witte Museum, “The Poetry of Art” will feature local poet laureates reading their work and Jim LaVilla-Havelina, San Antonio’s National Poetry Month Coordinator, as well as adult and youth winners of San Antonio’s 2022 Ekphrastic Poetry Contest. Former San Antonio poet laureate Carmen Tafolla will read a poem inspired by a piece of art from the Briscoe, while other San Antonio poet laureates will be on hand to read their poems based on works from other local institutions. The pairings featured in this year’s ekphrastic poetry effort include Jenny Browne, the McNay Art Museum; Jim LaVilla-Havelin, San Antonio Museum of Art; Octavio Quintanilla, the Witte Museum and current San Antonio Poet Laureate, Andrea Vocab Sanderson, Ruby City.

An ekphrastic poem is based on a piece of art, taking an existing piece of visual art and using written words to describe and expand on the theme of that work of art. Many of these poems explore hidden meanings or an underlying story. Each local art institution selected one work from their collection to feature in the 2022 Ekphrastic Poetry Contest for adult and youth poets.

The featured works include:

  • The Briscoe Western Art Museum, With No Roof but a Resistol, Bruce Greene.
  • The McNay Art Museum, The Sole Sitter, Willie Cole.
  • Ruby City, Hub, 3rd Floor, Union Wharf, 23 Wenlock Road, London N1 7ST UK, Do Ho Suh.
  • San Antonio Museum of Art: Landscape of Four Seasons, Unkoku Togan.
  • The Witte Museum, Carretta Wheel from a Tejano Freighter.

From its McNutt Sculpture Garden to the museum’s beautifully restored historic home inside the former San Antonio Public Library building, the Briscoe’s collection spans 14 galleries, with special exhibitions, events and a fantastic Museum Store, providing art, culture, history and entertainment. Museum hours, parking and admission details are available online.

Preserving and presenting the art, history and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is located on the San Antonio River Walk at 210 W. Market Street in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building. Named in honor of the late Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife, Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum includes the three-story Jack Guenther Pavilion, used for event rentals and programs, and the outdoor McNutt Sculpture Garden.

Briscoe Western Art Museum unveils 2022 Night of Artists

The annual exhibition and sale that celebrates the beauty and spirit of the west returns to full schedule. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

The Briscoe Western Art Museum proudly welcomes Western artists and collectors to celebrate the vibrancy of Western art during the museum’s 2022 Night of Artists Exhibition and Sale, on March 25-26 in San Antonio. With the opportunity to view and purchase nearly 300 new works of painting, sculpture and mixed media by 78 of the country’s leading contemporary Western artists, Night of Artists draws artists, collectors and art enthusiasts to the banks of the San Antonio River Walk for two days of festivities kicking off one of the premier Western art exhibitions and sales in the world. Beyond the opening celebration, Night of Artists is a public exhibition and sale that spans six weeks at the Briscoe, March 27 – May 8, and is included with general admission to the museum. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

“After the last two years, which included the temporary closure of the museum and an online celebration of Night of Artists, the opportunity to celebrate the beauty and impact of the rich stories shared through Western art is especially welcome. Now more than ever, the importance of art in our lives cannot be understated and the fantastic artists and the remarkable works featured this year deserve to be celebrated. We are honored to work with a premier showcase of emerging and well-renowned contemporary Western artists and grateful to the collectors and buyers who recognize the quality of the works showcased.” – Michael Duchemin, President and CEO of the Briscoe Western Art Museum

The wide range of artwork reflects the vastness of the great American West. From scenic landscapes and inspired Native Americans, classic cowboys and dazzling vaqueros to stunning wildlife and detailed portraiture, Night of Artists features something for every art enthusiast to enjoy. Some of the featured artists include Mary Ross Buchholz, C. Michael Dudash, Teresa Elliott, Martin Grelle, George Hallmark, Z.S. Liang, Kenny McKenna, Jan Mapes, Don Oelze, Paul Rhymer, Stefan Savides, Billy Schenck, Michael Ome Untiedt, Kim Wiggins, and Xiang Zhang. Notable new artists participating this year include Teal Blake, Nancy Cawdrey, Donna Howell-Sickles, Brenda Kingery, Dave LaMure, Jr., Joshua LaRock, Bruce Lawes, and Jim Vogel.

Night of Artists is a fundraiser for the museum, benefiting the Briscoe’s full array of exhibitions and programs throughout the year. The event’s two-day opening weekend kicks off with the annual Briscoe Bison Society Collectors Summit, where artists, collectors and gallery owners gather to share their insights during panel discussions and conversations exploring the Western art market and trends. The two-part summit takes place March 25 and March 26 at The Westin Riverwalk. Intended for everyone from novice to seasoned art collectors, the panels feature nationally recognized Western artists, experts and gallery owners.

The Exhibition Preview, Dinner and Live Auction unfolds March 25 with an evening of cocktails in the Night of Artists exhibition, an elegant, seated dinner and a vivacious live auction. Conducted by Troy Black, the live auction features 32 separate works. The evening takes place in the Briscoe’s Jack Guenther Pavilion on the banks of the San Antonio River Walk.

New to this year’s schedule, the Night of Artists Awards Luncheon takes place March 26, honoring the artists in this year’s exhibition and recognizing the annual award winners.

Night of Artists’ signature event, the Exhibition Opening, Art Sale and Reception, takes place March 26. This memorable evening includes the “Luck of the Draw” Art Sale, where works of art are available for purchase at a fixed price established by the artist. Attendees are provided with a ballot book and may place an intent to purchase slip in the box by a work of art they would like to purchase. When time expires, two slips are randomly drawn allowing the first drawee the opportunity to purchase the piece or pass it along to the second drawee. All the excitement happens to the tune of live music under the stars in the museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden.

Tickets for all Night of Artists events are available online or by calling 210.299.4499. The Night of Artists public exhibition will be on display during regular museum hours March 27 – May 8 and is included in museum admission. Works that are not sold through opening weekend will be available for purchase both in-person and online.

Preserving and presenting the art, history and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is located on the San Antonio River Walk at 210 W. Market Street in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building. Named in honor of the late Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife, Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum includes the three-story Jack Guenther Pavilion, used for event rentals and programs, and the outdoor McNutt Sculpture Garden.

Valentine’s Day activities at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

The Briscoe’s McNutt Sculpture Garden. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Let romance take root in the Briscoe Western Art Museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden during the museum’s “Sips and Sounds of the West” series on Friday, February 11. With live music, dinner and dancing under the stars, kick up your heels with your Valentine or grab your posse and enjoy a night out with friends surrounded by the beauty of the fantastic bronze sculptures and lush greenery that create the perfect getaway on the banks of the River Walk. Doors open at 6:30p.m. with music, drinks, and food until 8:30p.m. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

Sips and Sounds of the West features singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Clint Tomerlin, with fantastic food truck fare available from Benjie’s Munch. Tickets are $5 per person for museum members, $15 per person for non-members, and include two free beer/soda/water tickets, with beer generously provided by Ranger Creek Brewery. Adding a sweet note for Valentine’s, each ticket also includes a complimentary chocolate covered strawberry.

Guests can also partake in the Briscoe’s annual tradition of penning a Pony Express Love Letter to be hand delivered by the museum as a tip of the hat to the historic horse-mounted riders mail delivery system. This year, the museum will be hand delivering letters to local frontline and healthcare workers. Guests can also pen a mad-lib to show their love to their honey or their friends. In addition to Sips and Sounds, visitors can stop by the museum during regular hours to craft letters of encouragement, thanks and support for our healthcare heroes, February 4 through 13.

The museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden offers the perfect respite during any River Walk visit. With the lights of downtown in the background, the garden becomes magical at night, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends. If weather conditions turn frosty, the event will overlook the River Walk from the Briscoe’s Jack Guenther Pavilion.

The Briscoe’s collection of Western art and artifacts highlights the stories of the West through visual art. Collection highlights include Santa Anna’s sword, works by Frederic Remington, Pancho Villa’s last known saddle, a fantastic Alamo diorama and artifacts, contemporary and historic paintings and sculptures, as well as cowboy and Native American relics, weapons and photography. The museum is located on the south end of the River Walk, near the Arneson River Theatre and La Villita, with convenient parking at the Riverbend Garage directly adjacent to the museum or one of many downtown surface lots. Museum hours, parking and admission details are available online.

Upcoming events at San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art is bringing visitors new exhibitions, new art installations, and a new executive director. Photo: San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art is kicking off the New Year with a new executive director, new installations and new exhibitions in 2022. Following an international search, the Museum recently named Emily Ballew Neff, PhD, as its new executive director, just in time to welcome new works and exhibitions from renowned artists, including Wendy Red Star. From February 11 through May 8, 2022, contemporary artist Wendy Red Star will evaluate identity, cultural heritage, and American history in her mid-career survey and latest exhibition, Wendy Red Star: A Scratch on the Earth. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2022)

New Art Installations
Now through June 26, 2022 visitors can explore new acquisitions from San Antonio artists in SAMA’s Contemporary gallery. SAMA acquired nine artworks by eight San Antonio-based artists, including Jennifer Ling Datchuk, Jenelle Esparza, Joe Harjo, Jon Lee, Ethel Shipton, Chris Sauter, Naomi Wanjiku Gakunga, and Liz Ward. SAMA acquired the works as part of an initiative developed to support the city’s visual artists and reflect the vibrancy of the community and its rich cultural landscape. All of the artworks, which include textiles, painting, photography, prints, and sculpture, mark first entries by the artists to SAMA’s collection.

Upcoming Exhibitions
Wendy Red Star: A Scratch on the Earth: February 11, 2022 – May 8, 2022
Drawn from the collection of The Newark Museum of Art and museums across the country, Red Star’s mid-career survey will include photography, textiles, and film and sound installations, produced over a period of fifteen years. An immersive video will be screened inside a sweat lodge recreated within the gallery at the heart of the exhibition. An enrolled member of the Apsáalooke (Crow) Tribe, Red Star works across disciplines to explore the intersections of Native American ideologies and colonialist structures, both historically and in contemporary society. Drawing on pop culture, conceptual art strategies, and the Crow traditions within which she was raised, Red Star pushes photography in new directions—from self-portraiture to photo-collage and altered historical photographs—to bring to life her unique perspective on American history. The importance of family, Indigenous roots of feminism, Crow mythology, history of the Montana landscape, and the pageantry of Crow Fest are among the subjects that Red Star brings to life in this exhibition.

Upcoming Events
24th Annual Mays Symposium: Contemporary Perspectives on Native American Art

Native American cultures have often been romanticized, appropriated, or erased from the canons of art history. This symposium seeks to provide greater context, understanding, and inclusivity through fresh insights into the personal and societal narratives that are woven into the practice of contemporary Native American artists.

Virtual Keynote with artist Wendy Red Star
Friday, February 25, 2022 at 6p.m.
(Virtual)

Lectures and Panel Discussion
Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m.
(In-person and live-streamed)

Artist Presentations by:
Joe Harjo, Artist, Chair of Photography, Southwest School of Art
Ruben Olguin, Artist, Educator

Panel Discussion by:
Joe Harjo
Dakota Hoska, Assistant Curator of Native Arts, Denver Art Museum
Risa Puelo, Independent Curator, Writer
Ruben Olguin
Moderator: Dr. Annette Portillo, Professor, University of Texas, San Antonio

Visit here for tickets.

The San Antonio Museum of Art serves as a forum to explore and connect with art that spans the world’s geographies, artistic periods, genres, and cultures. Its collection contains nearly 30,000 works representing 5,000 years of history. Housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of San Antonio’s River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is committed to promoting the rich cultural heritage and life of the city. The Museum hosts hundreds of events and public programs each year, including concerts, performances, tours, lectures, symposia, and interactive experiences. As an active civic leader, the Museum is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the city and the region, and to supporting its creative community.