This is a special episode that was recorded live in Fort Worth, Texas as part of the Cowboy Artists of America's 56th annual exhibition and sale. The show was called "Stories From Around The Campfire," and it was held at the world-renowned Amon Carter Musem of American Art. I was joined on stage by seven influential members CAA community, and we had a panel discussion about the rich history and bright future of the organization. As you'll hear, the event was partly an in-depth, educational discussion about the history of the CAA and western art markets, with the other part being hilarious stories from the organization's past 56 years.

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This event was the brainchild of CAA member and my good friend Teal Blake, who joined me on the podcast several years ago. Sitting on stage with me for the event were Fred Fellows, Jody Beeler, Bill Nebeker, Seth Hopkins, Tim Newton, Red Steagall, and Bruce Greene, all of whom are legends in the western art world– you can read more about all of them using the links in the episode notes. Each of these gentlemen brought a unique perspective and distinct experiences to the conversation. But across the board, they all share a deep love of the West, authentic artistic humility, and unwavering respect for the legacy of the CAA.

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This conversation winds in and out of many fascinating (and sometimes hilarious) topics. We had great discussions about the creative process, the idea of fully committing to the life of an artist, and how mentorship plays a huge role in the artist's journey. We discussed the CAA's unprecedented longevity in the art world, and how the group's annual trail ride plays an important role in building friendships and strong bonds between the artists. We talk about how the CAA selects new members, and how the organization has evolved artistically over the decades. There is no lack of sense of humor among these guys, so they share plenty of crazy stories about the pranks and practical jokes that they've played on each other over the past 56 years. You can hear from the audience's laughter that everyone in the auditorium was having a great time.

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I was honored to share a stage with these seven men, and I greatly appreciate Teal inviting me to be a part of such a special few days. Hope you enjoy!

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• Cowboy Artists of America
• Episode Notes and Links: https://mountainandprairie.com/caa/

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TOPICS DISCUSSED:

• 2:40 - Introduction and gratitude
  
• 4:55 - Fred Fellows' journey from Northrop Aircraft to professional artist
• 13:20 - Jody talks about Joe Beeler's focus and work ethic
• 15:40 - Bill Nebeker tells one of his world-famous jokes
• 18:40 - Bill discusses mentorship and art education for the next generation
• 25:40 - Seth Hopkins discusses the CAA's longevity in the art world
• 28:10 - Tim Newton discusses how the CA began his journey in the art world
• 33:10 - Red Stegall talks about his deep respect for the CAA
• 38:40 - Bruce Greene discusses the balance of being an individual with being a member of a brotherhood of artists  
• 46:25 - Fred discusses the CA trail ride
• 49:40 - Crazy pranks and funny stories from the trail ride
• 1:00:40 - What are the criteria for joining the CAA?
• 1:05:55 - What does the future of the CAA look like?
• 1:07:40 - Early days of selling western art, before there was a robust western art market
• 1:10:40 - How does CA pick trail ride locations
• 1:12:55 - How the CA built the western art market
• 1:16:10 - How the CA thinks about finding new artists in the future

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