Art Association Takes Road Trip to Visit Artist Kenneth Wyatt

On September 2, the Muleshoe Art Association traveled to Tulia to admire an internationally recognized artist, sculptor, and in his former life, ordained Methodist pastor, Kenneth Wyatt. Dr. Wyatt is well-known and respected in the West Texas area as well as around the world, and his work can be found all over the United States and foreign countries. His paintings of the Apostles, Jesus, and artistic crosses can be found in many churches, and he is equally well-known for his Western-themed paintings and sculptures. His knowledge of the cowboy way comes naturally, based on his experiences, and it shows in his work. His faith comes through in the depth of feeling that shows in his faith-themed works; many times it is apparent in the Western work as well. We started our trip with a stop for lunch at the El Camino Restaurant in Tulia , which was decorated with Wyatt prints marked for sale. Members who went on the trip were, left to right around the table, Kay Hohes, Sandra Chancey, Jackie Hinderliter, Nelda Merriott, Susan Skipworth, and Ann Johnson. I went, too, but I am behind the camera. The house and gallery are in the end of a cul-de-sac and most impressive.
As you enter the house, the living room serves as a somewhat formal and functional living room, but also displays art work.

But the as you enter the gallery area, it is a whole new Western world.

Dr. Wyatt had a sculpture in progress, and he shared some of the techniques used for physical balance and artistic composition when creating sculpture, especially when dealing with a running horse figure.
            He shared the history of another of his works in progress, a head of a Cayuse, a wiry variety of wild mustang used by the Indians, known for its less than beautiful conformation but extraordinary endurance, which was featured in the Audie Murphy movie Tumbleweed. The history of the horse will be included on a plaque on the back of the head.

Wyatt also has a work area for painting in the middle of the gallery. When we were there, it just happened that no painting was in progress.

Here are a couple of other views inside the gallery, although they really don’t do it justice.

The artist is in residence most of the time and loves to share stories about his work. We enjoyed the visit. You will, too.   For more information and directions to Kenneth Wyatt Galleries, go to www.kennethwyatt.com or call 806-995-2239 for the Tulia gallery or 575-754-6133 for information about their Red River Gallery of Fine Art in Red River, New Mexico.