Renowned artist Alice Leese has taken center stage as the featured artist for the highly anticipated 2023 Trappings of Texas exhibit, hosted at the prestigious Museum of the Big Bend on the Sul Ross State University campus in Alpine.
Marking its 37th annual occurrence, the Trappings of Texas exhibit is scheduled to unfold from September 14th to 16th. Enthusiasts and art connoisseurs eager to experience the unique fusion of Western culture and artistic expression can obtain tickets and detailed information by visiting the official event website: www.museumofthebigbend.com.
Alice Leese’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in her upbringing on the YT Ranch, a historical establishment situated in Winkler County. The ranch’s legacy traces back to her great-grandfather, an intrepid traveler who ventured from Maine to Colorado during the late 1800s. His bold journey continued as he shepherded a herd of sheep to an Odessa railhead, ultimately homesteading in the region. The YT Ranch, which now specializes in raising Hereford and Angus cattle, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the West.
Leese’s educational trajectory took her through Abilene Christian University, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. Her dedication to honing her craft led her to pursue a Master of Fine Arts at Sul Ross State University. Leese’s exceptional talent and artistic prowess have earned her recognition as a signature member of the American Plains Artists and the Cowgirl Artists of America. Her affiliations extend to groups like Plein Air Artists Colorado, Plein Air Artists of New Mexico, and the Outdoor Painters Society.
Throughout her career, Leese’s artistic pursuits have encompassed diverse landscapes. She has held the esteemed title of artist-in-residence at notable locations such as Fort Union National Monument, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park. A particularly unique experience involved spending a month on a secluded 50-acre island with her husband. Leese’s remarkable journey has also attracted attention from media outlets, as she was featured on Texas Country Reporter.
The hallmark of Leese’s work lies in her connection to place—the profound influence of specific locations on her artistic creations. Her oeuvre distinctly echoes the Southwestern United States, with a special focus on the YT Ranch where she resides and derives inspiration. As someone with deep roots in ranching, Leese places a significant emphasis on conservation and stewardship of the land. Her artwork serves as a visual chronicle, capturing the interplay between natural forces and human intervention. The ever-changing landscape, influenced by weather conditions, droughts, rains, and even events like grass fires, finds expression through Leese’s skillful brushstrokes.
In her own words, Leese articulates her artistic philosophy, stating, “My work is about place, specific locations. The work is regional to the Southwest United States, particularly the YT Ranch where I live and work.” Her keen eye translates the intricate impressions left by nature and mankind onto canvas, creating a living record of the environment’s evolution.
The honor of being chosen as the premier artist for the Trappings of Texas exhibit holds deep significance for Leese. She regards her fellow exhibitors as talented interpreters of the West, with many having direct involvement in agriculture—a connection that lends authenticity to their portrayal of cowgirls, cowboys, and the Western landscape. Leese is humbled to share this artistic journey with her peers, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to contribute her unique perspective.
Reflecting on her time at Sul Ross State University, Leese fondly recollects its history as an art colony, established by early Texas artists who sought to impart their wisdom to budding talents. For additional information about the exhibit or inquiries, interested parties can reach out to Director Mary Bones by emailing maryb@sulross.edu.
As the Trappings of Texas exhibit beckons, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in Alice Leese’s evocative creations, each stroke of paint serving as a bridge between the rich heritage of the West and the captivating realm of artistry. Among her notable works is “Cathedral Mountain Sunrise,” a breathtaking oil-on-canvas piece measuring 51 by 75 inches, featured in this article.
