About the ExhibitionIn 1912, the famous cowboy artist Charlie Russell was invited by Calgary Stampede founder Guy Weadick to exhibit his paintings at the first ever Calgary Stampede. Known then as the Famous Cowboy Artist, Russell created art that connected deeply with ranchers and cowboys in the West. His "Special Exhibition" of 20 paintings was a huge draw at the first Calgary Stampede.
This summer, in celebration of the Calgary's Stampede's centennial, Glenbow is reuniting the paintings from that exhibition 100 years later which will include 17 of the 20 paintings exhibited in 1912. From Russell's glorious western landscapes and "heroic" depictions of First Nations to some of his most famous action paintings featuring cattle cowboys and outlaws, this exhibition is truly a once in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the best works painted by this iconic western artist.
Drawn from private collections and major art galleries across North America, this summer exhibition will be a must see for Albertans and tourists alike.