Original Bob Wade
16" x 4" Mural
Created for Ranch 616

"The interesting thing about places like Texas is that the myths are perpetuated by cultural curiosity and, perhaps, a universal interest in being a real cowboy. Part of my fascination with Western mythology is that, like jazz and football, it is unique to the United States. I would rather perpetuate the myth of the West than participate in its homogenization."
-Bob Wade, 1975

While Texas-born Bob Wade earned two university art degrees, to a large extent his best classroom has been the Lone Star State itself. The son of a hotel manager, Wade lived all over Texas until his family settled in El Paso. He grew up literally surrounded by all the myths, exaggerations and cultural manifestations that have helped to create Texas's unique, wild 'n woolly, larger-than-life reputation. It's mind-boggling to even try and imagine the cross-pollinization involving bordertown culture, Indian tepee curio shops and oversize roadside folk history figures - that went on in this artist's head during his years as student and professor.

As Bob Wade gained national and international recognition as an artist - while teaching at colleges and universities for over a decade - he remained true to the impressions and memories of his hot rod and college years. And continues to do so through painting and sculpture.