Page 8 - 2020 Russell Catalogue

Welcome to The Russell 2020!
Welcome to The Russell 2020!
If you’re an old friend who is joining us again, we’re glad to see you. If you are a first-time attendee, please know that you’re among new friends. To each of you, I’m grateful you’ve chosen to join us for this celebration of the American West.
That’s truly what this event is—a celebration. Without question, it’s a premiere auction of Western art, but to fully experience The Russell is to encounter the living spirt of the American West. As we enter a new decade, the museum is poised to elevate this spirit like never before. At this year’s auction, we will make a major announcement that speaks to how we are advancing the art and soul of the American West. You won’t want to miss this exciting moment.
As always, The Russell will inspire, engage, and entertain. From Art in ActionTM and The Russell Runway Show to rich dialogue at our Educational Symposium to meeting friends both new and old, The Russell provides us a platform to renew ourselves in the art and soul of the American West, the land that inspired Charlie’s work, and the Western values that shaped his legacy. That’s what makes The Russell different.
As we celebrate the West we love, the passing of one of our own reminds us of life’s fragility and how our trail can quickly change. Over the past few months, we’ve mourned the loss of Western artist Jay Contway.
Jay, like Charlie, lived life fully. His energy was evident in his art, particularly in his action-heavy bronzes that depicted an authentic Western life. It was also evident in his friendship with others, just like Charlie. The common theme these two artists exude is that a good story, a good laugh, and a good friend are best discovered over good art.
In the spirit of Charlie and Jay and scores of other Western artists, we hope you’ll enjoy 2020’s edition of The Russell and our celebration of the American West. I know you’ll discover new friends, make new memories, and encounter art that will move your Western spirit.
I hope our trails cross. Sincerely,
Jim Peterson
Chair, Board of Directors