AMERICAN PLAINS 40th Anniversary at Cook Center

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By Hannah Barber,

The American Plains 40th Annual Juried Show features a diverse selection of two- and three-dimensional realistic and representational artworks crafted in traditional media.

These works vividly depict the American Great Plains region, capturing its landscapes, wildlife, communities, and cultural heritage—both historical and contemporary. The exhibition features pieces created by nationally acclaimed, award-winning artists, alongside emerging talents recognized for their promise, representing a broad spectrum of artists from across the United States and occasionally from international backgrounds.

Founded in 1982, the American Plains Artists initially formed as a small collective of artists dedicated to capturing the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of the American Plains through their work. Today, the organization remains committed to fostering camaraderie among artists who share a deep appreciation for this expansive and varied region. The APA has grown into a nonprofit organization with a membership that includes both signature and associate members. Their enduring mission is to educate the public about the American Plains through traditional and representational art, highlighting the region’s unique landscapes, history, and communities.

Experience the American Plains 40th Annual Juried Show, on display from October 16, 2025, through January 5, 2026, at the Pearce Museum at Navarro College. The museum welcomes visitors Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and on Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Awards:
Best of Show—Sherry Blancard Stuart, “The Signal”
1st Place Award—David Dorsey, “Fiddlin’ the Day Away”
2nd Place Award—Mary Lou Pape, “She Waits”
3rd Place Award—Susan Temple Neumann, “Desert Prayers”

Publisher’s Award of Excellence—Lou Sanders Aubright, “A Sense of Caution”
Publisher’s Award of Excellence—James Loveless Jr., “Bass Reeves the Legend”
Publisher’s Award of Excellence—T.W. Vanya, “Whirlin’ Dirvi sh”
Artist’s Retreat Award—Barbara Summer Edwards, “Home of a Nation”
Clyde Heron Award—Desree Su Pettara, “Half Dozen Hombres”
Best Plains Life Award—Gary Ward, “Wyoming Momma”
The Texas Award—Gary Ward, “Cowboy Carpool”

Ten Awards of Excellence (Honorable Mentions):
T.W. Vanya, “Espuelos De Los Vaqueros”
David Godfrey, “Silent Hunter Along the Water Trail”
Gary Byrd, “ Approaching Thunder”
Lou Sanders Albright, “Waiting”
Eileen Nistler, “Transfer of Deed”
Gary Byrd, “Hilltop”
Clyde Lewis, “Southern Cheyenne Warhorse”
Mary Lou Pape, “Frontier Days”
Rita Morris, “Remember When”