A visionary storyteller, Esther Pearl Watson (b. 1973) blends memories and imagination to capture her Texas upbringing. She is presently at work on a mural-size painting (about 13 feet tall and 20 feet wide) created specifically for the Amon Carter’s atrium. As part of the museum’s program of rotating contemporary artworks in the atrium space, Pasture Cows Crossing Indian Creek is an exciting addition to an ongoing exploration of Texas artists and their contributions to modern American art. An homage to her family, “the memories we built together and sense of place,” this lively, storied painting features a wide swathe of land in Comanche, Texas, where the artist’s grandfather operated a cattle ranch and was general manager of the local radio station. Watson highlights the canvas with landmarks and motifs that are identifiable to Texas natives. Although deeply personal, Watson’s narratives transcend her inner world to relay the distinctive folklores and qualities that are unique to Texas.