The High Desert Museum reports that more than 35 artists and over 60 submissions have been selected for the annual Art of the West show, a fundraising event featuring fine art depictions of the western region of the U.S. by contemporary artists. From iconic landscapes and handsome cowboys, to Native American baskets and gorgeous abstractions, there is bound to be something for everyone.
The selected work will be on display and available as part of a silent auction for one month at the Museum. Swing by the Museum to bid on your favorite piece or buy it outright, before someone else does! The exhibition and auction end on August 29 at the Museum’s annual fundraising gala, the High Desert Rendezvous. All of the proceeds support the Museum’s education programs.
Preparation for the High Desert Rendezvous this year has been the busiest yet. The Rendezvous over the past three or four years has grown exponentially, which has allowed it to gain recognition as a high caliber art show.
“We strive to provide a variety of artwork and mediums that not only appeal to art collectors, but to art enthusiasts and visitors,” says Executive Director Dana Whitelaw. The goal is simple: to capture the spirit of the West by local and regional artists and engage in a festive celebration of the museum itself.
Another exciting aspect to this year’s High Desert Rendezvous is expansion within the western art genre. “There is so much more to western art than the typical depictions. There is movement in the genre that includes contemporary and even abstract representations of the west,” Whitelaw adds. Therefore, there is a broad range of mediums including oils, pastels, watercolors, sculpture, photography and mixed media. There are some High Desert Rendezvous veterans who have returned from previous years, as well as new artists to diversify the collection. Curator Faith Powell is particularly excited about the inclusion of two Native American artists this year who bring a fresh perspective to the exhibit.
The Rendezvous is guaranteed to have exceptional pieces for art lovers to appreciate, fall in love with and buy for a wonderful cause.

High Desert Rendezvous:

Enjoy hosted drinks, appetizers, gambling and games, as well as a silent auction at the annual High Desert Rendezvous fundraising event. Last year’s event helped the Museum raise $300,000 for its nationally recognized educational programs. Help make the 2015 event a huge success! Saturday, August 29 5-9pm

Non-member tickets are $350 per couple (two tickets) and $200 single ticket per person. Member tickets are $150 per person and $300 per couple. Sponsorship starts at $2,000.

541-382-4754
www.highdesertrendezvous.net