Jackson Hole’s Legacy Gallery presents painter David Mann, in a One Man Show, July 19-29th. An opening reception for the artist takes place Thursday, July 19th, 6-8:00 pm. A dozen new works by Mann will be on exhibit. Mann, a chronicler of Native American culture, continues his focus on that subject matter with this show. Mann specifically portrays the lives of the Plains Indians, specifically, says the gallery, in the context of the mid to late 19th century.

Although Mann “does extensive research on the clothing and background objects of his subject matter,” he does not paint historical events. His biography notes that as a child, Mann was captivated by a book illustrated by Alfred Jacob Miller, a painter of Western subjects; Frank McCarthy’s magazine illustrations were another great influence. For a significant period in his life, Mann spent time on Southwest reservations, gaining a familiarity with his subject evident in his paintings today.

Paintings depicting Native Americans seem particularly popular now. To be more correct, I’ve noticed an uptick of interest in, and shows featuring, this subject matter. A very well-known writer, living here in our midst, has repeatedly expressed to me his opinion that the use of the term “Native American” is unnecessary; it’s a politically genteel habit we’ve become accustomed to. My writer friend (initials J.B.C.) insists that using the word “Indian” is not only fine, it’s correct. I replied that when press materials come to me using the words “Native American,” I will follow that lead; if materials come to me using the word “Indian,” I will follow that lead.  www.legacygallery.com 

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Trailside Galleries  2nd Annual Masters in Miniature Invitational Show, opens Thursday, July 19th, with a reception at the gallery 5:00-8:00 pm. There will be a sale by draw. The show features more than 200 works by Trailside’s extensive roster of artists, plus works by some special guest artists. A show of 200 new works can only happen if the works are miniatures~~and this show is ” a wonderful platform to to showcase these small jewels, with a plethora of subject matter and artistic styles.”  Western, wildlife, figuratives, seascapes, landscapes and florals are all represented subject matter.  The show remains up through July 31st, 2012.

A standout may be William Pickerd’s diminutive, beautiful Pueblo Series vessels. Carved from a single stone block, they appear transluscent; their walls are 1/8″ thick.

“My vessel shapes, turned very thin, allow the stone to reveal prehistoric landscapes that with every touch of the tool continue to amaze me,” says Pickerd.

A very partial list of artists participating in the show includes Kathy Wipfler, George & Kay Northup, Mike Malm, Sherry Sander, Cyrus Afsary, Richard Thomas, Lanny Grant, Greg McHuron, Huihan Liu and Morgan Weistling.  www.trailsidegalleries.com 

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The Art Association keeps having fairs, and I keep rolling out this rap! July & August fairs take place at Miller Park, in Jackson. This month, check it out July 20-22nd. For info, or to volunteer, contact Steph: steph@artassociation.org or call 733-6379. www.artassociation.org

Hey, it’s July!

So it’s time to share

‘Bout that annual gig

The Jackson Hole Art Fair!

Or, “Art Fair Jackson Hole”

As it likes to be called;

Nobody asked me—I’m not involved.

Buy ceramics, glass, fiber!

This poem’s the town crier

For an art fair weekend

Come rain or come shine-er.

Paintings, baskets, jewels, tents;

Sunscreen and some fivers

All make for a day

The whole family could die for!

Throw horseshoes, have fun.

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Other Art Happenings~~~~

During this week’s Art Walk—Thursday, July 19th—Heather James Fine Art  will be showcasing paintings and sculptures by legendary artists such Marc Chagall, Andrew Wyeth, Henri Matisse and Diego Rivera. There’s a jewelry show, too; for this part of the evening the gallery is partnered with Belle Cose. Time: 5-8:00 pm. Contact: Shari or James at 307-200-6090.  www.heatherjames.com

A new group, the Teton Plein Air Artists, will hold a Reception & Auction at “Four Daughters,” on Friday, July 20, 3:00-9:30 pm. Four Daughters is located at 36 E. Broadway, Jackson.  Many artists, painting in a variety of styles, are represented. Marie Massey is the contact: 970-222-1652.