1999 Cowboy Artists of America President (original) (raw)

Cowboy Artists of America

Bill Nebeker: 1999 Cowboy Artists of America President

When looking at a Bill Nebeker sculpture, viewers get an honest and authentic portrayal of the American West. The intricate detail and pleasing line of each composition convey Nebeker's pure enjoyment of western life, whether depicting an historical viewpoint or a more modern perspective. Subtle humor, wry observations and quiet tributes underlie his work. Nebeker has a knack for weaving an unobtrusive storyline into a sculpture and challenging the unsuspecting viewer to notice.

Raised in the beautiful mile-high, pine-covered town of Prescott, the original territorial capital of Arizona, Nebeker has long had a particular reverence for the working cowboy. Whether shown in a serious light or with a touch of humor, Nebeker often highlights the unique relationship that exists between man and animal in the West.

His repertoire of monumental bronze statues includes one in his hometown, completed in 1985, depicting the early settlers of Prescott - a miner, wagonboss, rancher and a pioneer woman. Another heroic-sized statue is the "Territorial Sheriff" in Phoenix. The sculpture was based on "The Ranger," Nebeker's 1989 CAA Gold Medal and Best of Show winner. In May 1998, Nebeker unveiled "Territorial Sheriff' in honor of all D.P.S. officers killed in the line of duty in Arizona. The statue is at the Arizona D.P.S. Headquarters in Phoenix. (left: _I'm Comin'...and Hell's Comin' With M_e, 22 x 22 inches, 1999 © CAA)

A member of the prestigious Cowboy Artists of America since 1978, Nebeker has won several awards including a Silver Medal in 1985, and the Gold Medal and Best of Show in 1989.

Read about the 34th Annual Cowboy Artists of America Sale and Exhibition at the Phoenix Art Museum.

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rev. 11/1/10

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