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Because this area is considered the headwaters of the Cowboy Artists of America (CA) and 2015 will mark the organization’s 50th anniversary, the Phippen Museum in Prescott, Arizona, will proudly present, Art & Heritage of the Cowboy Artists, from February 22nd through August 16th, 2015. This commemorative exhibition will explore the beginning and history of the Cowboy Artists of America, including the story of Bird’s Oak Creek Tavern (where the Cowboy Artists were created). But it will also offer a special section of items featuring paintings and artwork by the organization’s four, founding fathers. And as the museum’s namesake, George Phippen, was a founding member of the CA’s and their first president, a more appropriate time and place for this presentation would be hard to find.

In an effort to create a comprehensive exhibition, the Phippen has located more than 75 pieces of artwork for display from members both past and present. In addition, the museum has been in contact with some folks who bought a very special Joe Beeler piece at auction. It depicts four horses waiting in front of Bird’s Oak Creek Tavern (representing the CA’s founding fathers) and a plaque listing the founder’s names. In fact, Beeler had originally donated this piece to the Tavern in commemoration of that special founding day.