Trappings of Texas
at Museum of the Big Bend
Since 1986, the Museum of the Big Bend at Sul Ross State University has showcased the very best cowboy gear and fine Western Art at the longest running event of its kind in the country: Trappings of Texas.
The opening of Trappings of Texas is held each year in conjunction with the Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering on the last weekend of February. The opening weekend offers visitors an opportunity to meet the men and women who are the creators of the gear and art in the museum’s Trappings exhibit and public auction. These works of art remain on display at the museum for viewing and purchase through April.
Trappings of Texas is by invitation only and new artists and gearmakers must be juried in by the entire Trappings of Texas Committee, including Guest Curators of Gear and Art. Guest Curators of Gear include members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association, TCAA, Leland Hensley, Wilson Capron and John Willemsma. Guest Curators of Art is Cowboy Artists of America, CA, member, Wayne Baize and Mike Capron whose fifty years living in the southwest is reflected in the art that he creates. Like the originators of the first event, the goal of Trappings of Texas is to have a place for some of the most creative and talented cowboys to display their art.
Trappings of Texas is the only fundraiser for the Museum of the Big Bend, and monies earned help to support not only Trappings of Texas but the many educational programs and exhibits at the museum throughout the year.
Visit the Museum of the Big Bend and see for yourself the “true West” in all its forms at Trappings of Texas. For more information visit www.museumofthebigbend.com.
The opening of Trappings of Texas is held each year in conjunction with the Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering on the last weekend of February. The opening weekend offers visitors an opportunity to meet the men and women who are the creators of the gear and art in the museum’s Trappings exhibit and public auction. These works of art remain on display at the museum for viewing and purchase through April.
Trappings of Texas is by invitation only and new artists and gearmakers must be juried in by the entire Trappings of Texas Committee, including Guest Curators of Gear and Art. Guest Curators of Gear include members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association, TCAA, Leland Hensley, Wilson Capron and John Willemsma. Guest Curators of Art is Cowboy Artists of America, CA, member, Wayne Baize and Mike Capron whose fifty years living in the southwest is reflected in the art that he creates. Like the originators of the first event, the goal of Trappings of Texas is to have a place for some of the most creative and talented cowboys to display their art.
Trappings of Texas is the only fundraiser for the Museum of the Big Bend, and monies earned help to support not only Trappings of Texas but the many educational programs and exhibits at the museum throughout the year.
Visit the Museum of the Big Bend and see for yourself the “true West” in all its forms at Trappings of Texas. For more information visit www.museumofthebigbend.com.

Fort Davis
www.fortdavis.com
26 miles north on TX 118
A historic town and home of The Fort Davis National Historic Site. The highest town in Texas features a historic walking tour, shopping and lodging. Fort Davis is also the Hummingbird Capital of Texas with 16 confirmed species. The high altitude and mild year round climate make it a haven for 511 different species of birds which is the highest concentration in one region of bird species in America.
Fort Stockton
www.fortstockton.info
67 miles north on U.S. 67
Home of Paisano Pete, the world’s largest roadrunner, Fort Stockton is the westbound I-10 Big Bend gateway, featuring a historic downtown and the frontier Fort Stockton, other attractions, lodging and dining options.
Marathon
www.marathontexas.com
30 miles east on U.S. 90
A historic railroad town and gateway to the eastern entrance to Big Bend National Park. One of Texas’ best kept secrets features historic lodging and unique dining.
Marfa
www.marfacc.com
25 miles west on U.S. 90/67
Home to the world-recognized Chinati Foundation and several unique art galleries. Art, filmmaking, soaring over Marfa, and the Marfa Mystery Lights provide a unique blend of activities.
Presidio
www.cityofpresidio.com
61 miles south of Marfa on US 67
The western gateway to Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park and the western terminus of “River Road”, FM 170, one of the most scenic drives in North America. Presidio/Ojinaga is the only 24 hour port of entry in the Big Bend region.
Terlingua/Study Butte
www.bigbendchamber.homestead.com
78 miles south on TX 118
Between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park; gateway to the western entrance to the national park. Featuring the Terlingua Ghost Town, adventure outfitters, services, shopping, dining, and lodging.
Van Horn
www.vanhorntexas.org
99 miles west on U.S. 90
A key travel center in the shadow of Guadalupe Mountains National Park and El Capitan, Van Horn is the eastbound I-10 Big Bend gateway, providing wide choice of lodging options and traveler services.