History will consider Bill Owen one of the finest cowboy artists of his time. Bill lived the cowboy life and interpreted that life accurately for all of us to enjoy. I have had to evaluate shows with Bill’s work in them and have found that he not only mastered the medium of oils, as well as color, light, composition, etc., but he had a ‘feel’ for the subject as well that was phenomenal. When the TCAA were in discussions with the CA regarding a joint opening at the National Cowboy Museum we had time to visit in a social setting. Bill was always quick with a joke and a smile. It was during one of these moments that he suggested that we have a combined trail ride with the CA and the TCAA. I won’t get to ride with Bill Owen in this life, but I look forward to a time when I see that open-hearted grin again. For now though, I’m excited to see his last painting that will be on display at ‘Cowboy Crossings’ in October at the National Cowboy Museum in Oklahoma City.