WHAT: The Old West heyday of cowboys and Indians is long gone. But the romance of the era is very much alive and thriving in art. As example, we present the annual Coeur d'Alene Art Auction held each summer in Reno.
Started some three decades ago by area art dealers, the event has become a must-follow for collectors. And it has grown into a benchmark for prices on classic art in the genre. Total sales for the 2017 auction topped $16 million.
MORE: Readers may be surprised to learn that a vibrant group of living artists, some in their 60s or younger, including several women, now sell along with Charles Russell, Albert Bierstadt, George Catlin and other masters of the genre. Certain Old West art sells high today.
Born in 1927, Howard Terpning has exhibited in many prestigious galleries and is considered a modern master. In the recent auction, his "Whiskey Smugglers," a circa 1998 gouache on paper, measuring 26.5 inches by 40 inches, sold for $819,000. That's significant.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: It takes a while to become recognized in this classic genre. Artists behind most of the big sellers have an exhibition track record; many have been awarded prizes by respected juries.
HOT TIP: This is an area where fakes abound and mediocre art does not accrue value. A smart collector knows the seller or seeks expert advice before buying.
BOTTOM LINE: Buyers need deep pockets to afford authentic works by recognized masters of Old West art. The chance of finding a gem for a bargain is nil to none. Be a smart buyer.
