I recall as a young man back in the late sixties and early seventies, going to my great-uncle Al Nestler's gallery in Sedona (we lived in Flagstaff, a short forty minute drive away) and seeing painting after painting by Bill Shaddix.  I just loved what he did with aspen trees, and his treatment of still ponds was also quite enchanting.  I didn't have anywhere near the capital required to obtain one of his paintings, but I sure did want one.  Now I have two to sell!

I don't know if Bill ever qualified as a Texas artist, since he grew up in California, but he has certainly spent lots of time all over the West.  I like this quote from one of his brochures:

"A narrative element is important in my paintings, but I also work hard for a special kind of mood.  I want my viewers to have a good feeling when they see my work---to feel calm and secure.  When I paint a violent storm over the mountains, I'll put a small cabin in the picture with a lighted window---so it offers a warm haven.  In my cloudiest painting you just know the sun is going to break through pretty soon."

     August Lenox is one of the major artists represented in this collection.  His paintings are of both landscape and figures, especially figures from either the old West, the Civil War, or (and I think this was his favorite) pirates.  His interest in the latter subject has resulted in works that are fun to look at, and would find a good home in a den or office of an adventuresome fellow.

     I'll write more later, perhaps even post a photo if that will work here.