Last weekend, Casa Perez, one of Donald Judd’s iconic ranch houses located just outside of Marfa, Texas, played host to a vibrant gathering of over 100 enthusiastic participants during the annual Casa Perez Ranch Day event. This much-anticipated occasion, organized by the Judd Foundation, offered attendees a memorable experience filled with food, music, and an enlightening conversation on the flora of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Taking place on Sunday, November 5th, from 11:00am to 3:00pm, Casa Perez Ranch Day was a free event open to the public, welcoming visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of this unique location and learn about the desert’s diverse plant life.
A Culinary Delight
The day kicked off with a scrumptious lunch provided by Angel’s Restaurant, where attendees had the chance to savor delectable dishes served on a first-come, first-served basis. The tantalizing aromas and flavors set the stage for a day filled with culinary delights.
Botanical Insights
At 1:00pm, the crowd gathered for an engaging conversation titled “Flora of the Chihuahuan Desert.” The discussion featured two distinguished botanists, Dr. A. Michael Powell and Patty Manning. Dr. Powell, the co-founder of the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) and Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Biology, shared his extensive knowledge about the desert’s plant life. Manning, who worked closely with Dr. Powell at Sul Ross State University for eighteen years, discussed her experiences propagating native plants and contributing specimens to the Herbarium. Together, they delved into the history of their work, celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of CDRI, highlighted the importance of the Herbarium at Sul Ross, and detailed their efforts to collect and cultivate plant specimens from the region, with a specific focus on the Chinati Mountains and Sierra Tierra Vieja.
Exploring the Ranch
Following the botanical conversation, attendees had the opportunity to explore Casa Perez with a guided hike led by Randy Sanchez, Facilities Manager of Judd Foundation. This excursion allowed participants to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the ranch and gain insights into its history and significance.
Musical Ambiance
Throughout the day, the enchanting sounds of Lady Chanticleer’s music filled the air, adding a melodious backdrop to the event and enhancing the overall experience.
Community Support
The success of Casa Perez Ranch Day was made possible through the generous support of The Brown Foundation, Inc., Houston, and a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts. Additionally, this event received support from the National Endowment for the Arts, reflecting its cultural and educational significance.
Casa Perez Ranch Day not only celebrated the beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert but also highlighted the importance of preserving and appreciating the unique flora of this region. It served as a testament to the Judd Foundation’s commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of art, nature, and the environment, making it a day to remember for all who attended.
For more information about Casa Perez and upcoming events, visit Judd Foundation’s website.
