WICKENBURG, AZ.- The Desert Caballeros Western Museum in Wickenburg, Arizona, is hosting its nationally-acclaimed installation, “Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West™” Invitational Exhibition & Sale now in its 20th year. Known for spotlighting the diverse talents of women in Western art, the event continues to break boundaries with a showcase of bold and captivating works from more than 60 women artists. From contemporary ledger art and graphite portraits to large-scale sculptures and oil paintings, this year’s exhibition boasts an impressive array of artistic expressions that capture the grit and beauty of the West through a uniquely female lens. These are women who live the Western lifestyle every day.


Sara Bloodwolf, Horse Nation, oil on canvas, 24 x 24.

Opening weekend drew hundreds from across the country to Wickenburg during March 28 to 30, the dynamic weekend was filled with artist meet-and-greets, quick-draw contests, and live auctions. As part of the ongoing exhibit, visitors can cast their votes for the coveted People’s Choice Award, one of several accolades presented to participating artists. All events are on the Museum campus in the heart of Wickenburg. The prestigious Mary Ann Igna, Best of Show was awarded to Stephanie Revennaugh for her striking and futuristic sculpture “Bison”, crafted from glass and steel. Plan your visit or buy art online at westernmuseum.org.


Dyana Hesson, Sedona Windsock, oil on canvas, 28 x 22.

“Cowgirl Up!” continues to welcome both emerging and established artists that have been involved since the first exhibition in 2005, making it a vibrant platform for fresh talent to shine. Last year, newcomer Georgia Rowswell captured attention with her innovative landscape framed artwork made from textile fragments, winning both Best in Show and the People’s Choice Award. She returns this year alongside award-winning ledger artist Dolores Purdy of the Caddo Nation, whose standout colorful work is influenced by a fascinating blend of past and present art. Artists such as Linda Glover Gooch and Ann Hanson have been part of this exhibition since the beginning.

Among this year’s new artists is Sara Bloodwolf, a dynamic painter whose portfolio includes collaborations with the Smithsonian, Guns N ’Roses, and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. Sara’s great, great, grandfather Sequah performed with Buffalo Bill Cody for wild West hungry crowds across America. Bloodwolf’s vibrant, dreamlike oil paintings reflect a powerful Western narrative from a female perspective.


Sophy Brown, You and I, acrylic on board, 38 x 38

As “Cowgirl Up!” celebrates two decades of empowering women in the arts, the museum’s Dita and John Daub Western Women’s Art Acquisition Fund plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of early

Western women artists. This initiative helps bridge the gap between historical works and contemporary pieces by adding significant new acquisitions to the museum’s collection. Featured artists include notable names such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Dorothy Brett, Nampeyo, Pablita Velarde, and Helen Hardin, further enriching the narrative of women in Western art.


Veryl Goodnight, Under a Mantel of Gold, oil on linen, 24 H x 36 W

“Cowgirl Up!” is more than an art show—it’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of art to tell untold stories. As the exhibition reaches this milestone anniversary, it continues to honor the voices of female artists who have long contributed to shaping the visual language of the American West. For art enthusiasts and collectors alike, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with inspiration, discovery, and the timeless allure of the West.


Kathy Harder, Mixed Spots, watercolor on paper, 17.5 H x 14.5 W

The Desert Caballeros Western Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The Museum is known as “Arizona’s Most Western Museum” and serves 40,000 to 50,000 visitors a year. The Museum preserves and exhibits the art and history of the Southwest and the desert frontier, and is well-known for its innovative exhibitions and programming. Its world-renowned collections of American Western fine art, American Indian art and artifacts, and captivating interactive exhibits together create an unforgettable experience for visitors. The Museum’s entire lower level is devoted to a re-creation of life in Late Territorial Wickenburg. The Museum further enhances the visitor experience by offering a free audio guided tour system for adults and children, in English and Spanish. The Museum also has two stores, The Museum Store and Ranch Dressing.