Over decades of professional experience, Vicki has become one of the premier artists in the Western Art field.  Her work is in high demand and very collectible.  It combines a mastery of brushstroke and color, exquisite Realism in portraiture and subjects, and authenticity in the Western elements.  From the details in the hand-braided hackamore of the Buckaroo to the beadwork in the Native American regalia, her work displays a passion and care in preserving the ways of the Old West. 

 

Her authenticity stems from years of working cattle in the mountains of Los Osos, California.  This mentoring by Hank Peterson provided her foundation in the spade bit tradition of horse training.  Simultaneously, her education in Animal Husbandry at California Polytechnic State University explains her delicate and accurate portrayal of livestock and wildlife. 

 

Vicki’s focus on painting the Buckaroo began in Fallon, Nevada. While working at a cattle ranch and at the livestock auction yard she captured the nuances of the Western lifestyle around her.  Ernie Morris has also been a significant influence in her understanding of the Buckaroo tradition. His extensive literature on the subject, along with direct conversations is another part of her foundation in authentic Western Art. 

 

Vicki explains: “It was also in Fallon that I was introduced to the local Native American Tribes.  They stimulated a passion inside me that brought my senses alive. Inspiration came from their respect for and connection with Mother Earth.  I was excited by the way the light fell over their regalia and the traditions they have followed for centuries.  My Native American subjects are primarily children and warriors.  Their dignity and grace defy my tools of brush, canvas and oils – I must meet this challenge with the greatest of respect and accuracy.”  

 

Honors

2019        Featured Artist - Cattlemen’s Western Art Show and Sale 

2018        Signature Member - America Women Artists

2017        People’s Choice Award - Cattlemen’s Western Art Show and Sale

2016        Associate with Distinction Member - American Women Artists (AWA)

2016        Outstanding Figurative Work Award - Spring Online Juried Show

2014        Artists Choice Award - Cattlemen’s Western Art Show and Sale

2010        Award of Excellence - Mother Lode National Art Exhibition

2003        Best of Show - Mother Lode National Art Exhibition

1999        Top Ten - American Women Artist's National Competition

1980's      Gold Medals (oil, pen/ink, pencil) - Western Art Roundup (judged by the late Cowboy

  Artist Jack Swanson)

 

Shows

2014 to 2019           Cattlemen's Western Art Show and Sale

2004 to 2018           Mountain Oyster Club Annual Western Art Show

2005 to 2008           Peppertree Art Show

2005                        74th Crocker-Kingsley Juried Art Exhibition, Crocker Museum