James Morgan Retrospective Exhibit: Moments in the Wild
Steamboat Art Museum Announces
James Morgan Retrospective Exhibit: Moments in the Wild
The Steamboat Art Museum (SAM) is pleased to announce a retrospective exhibition by the renowned nature and wildlife painter, James Morgan, showcasing works of almost 40 years, including a range of mediums: sketches, studies, watercolors and oil.
Roaming the canyons and fields around the small, central Utah town where he grew up gave Jim Morgan an appreciation of nature’s wonders. He learned to see not only the larger vista, but also the resident wildlife and intimate aspects of the area. He now lives in northern Utah, where inspiration is just out the back door, creating his great appreciation for the great outdoors and the birds and animals that not only inhabit, but depend on dwindling open spaces. Depicting this interconnectedness is an integral part of his work. Playing with light, brushstrokes, and texture in the style of the impressionist, Jim constantly searches for different ways to express the beauty he sees in nature.
“The Steamboat Art Museum is honored to present this body of work created by James Morgan over his career. Our museum is dedicated to presenting art that represents the culture and heritage of the west. Jim’s work is a unique and genuine example of the mission of SAM. His representation of the nature and wildlife which surrounds us also serves to remind us of the importance to preserve these habitats and this landscape.” Betse Grassby, Executive Director
“Going back those many years has been an interesting journey down memory lane. Seeing where I’ve been, where I am and hopefully where I’m going. I value the people who, through the years, have appreciated and collected my work. Without their support and encouragement, I would have exhausted my supply of paint and brushes long ago.” James Morgan
Museum Events:
Opening reception with the Artist: December 7, 2019 5:00 – 8:00 pm
Weekend Celebration with the Artist:
February 1: 5:00 – 8:00pm with Steamboat First Friday Art Walk
February 2, 6:00 pm Steamboat Art Museum Winter Celebration: Moments in the Wild
About the Museum:
The Steamboat Art Museum (SAM) was formed in 2005. The Museum is located in the historic Rehder building in the heart of Steamboat Springs Creative District. In December of 2017, the museum finished a $1,000,000 historic rehabilitation of their building greatly expanding their exhibition and educational spaces and creating a new cultural center in the heart of historic downtown. The mission of SAM is to collect, preserve, and present fine art to the public, with a primary focus on the culture and heritage of Northwestern Colorado.
“The most important aspect of being an artist is being a keen observer. Nature’s ever-changing moods are a wellspring of inspiration. My goals for my work are to enjoy the process of painting and seeing, to engage emotional participation from people who view the painting, and to share the often overlooked, intimate aspects of nature. I seek to achieve a balance between the subject and its environment. The excitement for me is constantly exploring new ways to interpret nature. I am convinced that no one can improve on natural compositions, when they can be isolated.”
James Morgan, artistWith this exhibit, the Steamboat Art Museum celebrates the towering achievement of one of America’s foremost wildlife painters whose work gives an intimate view into the West’s natural world. The Steamboat Art Museum is honored to present this body of work created by Jim over his career. His representation of the nature and wildlife that surround us also serves to remind us of the importance to preserve these habitats and this culture.
We hope you enjoy this exhibit and have gained a greater appreciation for the culture and heritage of the West.
Betse T. Grassby, Executive Director
Presenting Sponsors
Anonymous
Guy and Jennifer Loughridge
Craig and Deirdre Macnab
John and MaryAnn Duffey
Joel and Karen Piassick
Forest City Realty Trust
Arie and Sharon Hoogendoorn
Tony and Emily Seaver
Wild Horse Gallery
Steamboat Magazine
Western Art Collector