Saturday, Feb. 28 –
Art by one of the most popular photographers of the 20th century will be featured at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, opening Saturday, Feb. 28. Running through May 10, Ansel Adams’ legacy will be on display in a collection of 48 works titled Ansel Adams: Masterworks. The show is expected to draw a large crowd; Mike Leslie, assistant director and curator at the museum, says, “Visitors to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum are attracted to great photography, and we know they admire the work of Ansel Adams.” A photographer and environmentalist, Adams found joy in nature at a young age. When he didn’t fit in at school, he discovered a place for himself outdoors, exploring the scenes that surrounded him. Before photography commanded his attention, the piano intrigued his artist mind. It was at 12-years-old that Adams learned to read and play the keys. The photographer within was already taking form. The almost five decades to follow took Adams on an adventure that audiences can experience through his lens. Known as a landscape photographer, Adams images depict natural environments across the country, with which he hoped to highlight from a different perspective than the average eye. This collection includes his works of nature, architectural studies, portraits and landscapes. The exhibit also includes a photo portrait of Ansel Adams by James Alinder. Organized by Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Northern California, Ansel Adams: Masterworks travels the country with Adams’ best works of art. Don’t miss its stop in Oklahoma. For more information, visit www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.