Artistry and the Craft of Cowboy Gear

Considered one of the foremost collections of contemporary Western art and cowboy gear, the Trappings of Texas exhibit and sale is hosted one weekend in September each year at the Museum of the Big Bend, located on the Sul Ross State University campus in Alpine. This long-standing exhibit and sale have celebrated the artistry of those who embody the cowboy way of life by showcasing original artwork and authentic cowboy gear. Started in 1986, it is the longest continually running exhibit and sale of contemporary Western art and custom cowboy gear in the country.

Trappings of Texas offers both the seasoned collector and the newcomer a chance to meet the artists behind the work and support their craft by purchasing their unique pieces.

Western artists such as Frank “Buddy” Knight, Doug Cook, Randy Glover, Troy Menix, and Justin Diver exhibit cowboy gear and jewelry, including bits, spurs, knives, and leatherwork. Artists such as Chessney Sevier, Herman Walker, Lindy C. Severns, Mike Capron, Wayne Baize, and others are always on display, showcasing their chosen media.

Every year, the event highlights a premier artist by offering enthusiasts a look into how these artists started honing their craft and how their way of life contributed to their artistry. Many of these expressive individuals live the cowboy way of life, working on or owning their ranches. Past premier artists include Brian Asher, Teal Blake, Wayne Franklin, and Phil Epp.

One example of how Western lifestyle is showcased through art is the work of 2023 Premier Artist Alice Leese. Leese was raised on the YT Ranch in Winkler County and she and her family still live and work there. Leese notes about her art, “My work is regional to the southwest United States, particularly the YT where I live and work. I record the impressions on the landscape made by natural phenomena and man, expressing the current environment as seen through the eyes of an artist. The land, occupants, and uses of the land change over regions, and my landscape paintings record the effects of weather conditions, droughts, rains, and events like grass fires. “

Each year, the Trappings of Texas event begins with a preview party on Thursday evening, where attendees may register to become buyers and meet the featured artists. The museum then hosts afternoon sessions, during which patrons can watch demonstrations by select artists as they create their artwork. The following evening, an opening reception and sale begin, allowing buyers, artists, and enthusiasts to catch up with one another. There is usually complimentary beer and wine, appetizers, and live music.

On Saturday morning, the museum notifies registered buyers if they are one of the lucky buyers from the show. This is followed by the second afternoon of artist demonstrations. The weekend winds down on Saturday evening with the Trappings Ranch Roundup Party. This closing event offers a catered meal, drinks, and live music.

This homage to Western art is only possible with the many sponsors and contributors who underwrite the drinks, meals, and live entertainment. In addition to local businesses, many area ranches and art enthusiasts contribute to the Museum of the Big Bend, which allows them to bring such exceptional Western artwork to the Big Bend region.