Michael G. Booth, an accomplished artist, sculptor, educator, and much more, is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Pendleton, Oregon. Originally known for his realistic approach to painting, sculpture, and drawing, Booth’s work reflects the rich history and vibrant life of his adopted home. Much of Michael’s works in Pendleton, from the 1990s, flourished, especially through his connection to the community, the Pendleton Round Up, and the historic landscapes that inspired him.
canvas from the horse series. Within a very limited-edition
of only 250 giclées.
A Rich Tapestry of History and Art
Booth’s artistic journey in Pendleton began with a vision to capture the town’s diverse history and dynamic present. His book A Sketch of Pendleton, A Limited Collector Edition brought the local culture to life through a series of detailed sketches and paintings. One of the most notable pieces from this period is his depiction of the Oregon Emigration in 1843, a pivotal moment in the area’s history. This scene commemorates the Great Migration, where thousands of settlers passed through Pendleton’s land after descending the Blue Mountains. The first major rest area with water, the Umatilla River, was also a frequent campsite for the local Cayuse Native Americans. This site, rich in history, became the foundation for the city of Pendleton itself, a fact Booth skillfully captured in his artwork.
Booth’s ability to merge the past with the present extended to his portrayal of Pendleton’s iconic buildings, many of which he sketched meticulously for his book. His watercolor paintings and acrylics are filled with vibrant details that evoke the energy of the town while honoring its heritage. The realism he employed in his paintings and sculptures allowed him to create works that resonate with locals and visitors alike. Whether through his sketches of historic buildings or his detailed sculptures, Booth’s work emphasized the importance of preserving Pendleton’s legacy while simultaneously showcasing the vitality of its modern-day community.
This soft cover artistic catalog captures in high detail the people and places of Pendleton
The Pendleton Round Up: A Central Influence
The Pendleton Round Up, known as the world’s richest four-day rodeo, played a central role in Booth’s artistic evolution. He found inspiration in the energy, bravery, and boldness of the event, often channeling the spirit of the rodeo into his artwork. One of his notable contributions to the Round Up activities was with his collaboration with students at the local college, where he taught art full time. In addition, Booth mentored inmates from the Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution, who participated in his summer college art classes.
In a powerful act of both education and community involvement, Booth chose the iconic Buckin’ Horse and rider logo of the Pendleton Round Up as a project for his students to sculpt. This collaborative effort produced a remarkable piece of art, a large sculpture that remains in the heart of Pendleton to this day. The inmates, under Booth’s guidance, welded, sculpted, and layered different materials to bring the sculpture to life. Their effort, combined with Booth’s mentorship, created a lasting symbol of the community’s spirit. This project was not just an art piece, it was an embodiment of Booth’s belief in the transformative power of art.
Sculpture: Bringing Pendleton to Life
Booth’s work extended beyond two-dimensional art to the world of sculpture, where he made significant contributions with his bronze and cement works. His sculptures, many of which depicted scenes from the Pendleton Round Up or the local landscape, are found throughout the town. These works bring the essence of Pendleton’s history into public spaces, making Booth’s art accessible to all who pass through. His sculptures not only celebrate Pendleton’s history but also cement his place as an integral part of the town’s artistic community.
A Lasting Legacy
Through his involvement in the local art scene, Booth became a cultural pillar of Pendleton, Oregon. His extensive exhibition history, including prestigious shows like the National Society of Painters in Casein and Acrylic and the Audubon Artists of America, brought national attention to his work. But it was his dedication to teaching and his investment in the Pendleton community that truly set him apart. His work was showcased in various state capitals, was collected by high-profile figures like Robert Redford and U.S. Senator, Gordon Smith, and remains a permanent fixture in the public spaces of Pendleton and throughout the valley.
Booth’s impact on Pendleton is still felt today. His sculptures stand in history of towns, his paintings grace the walls of public spaces, and his sketches continue to tell the story of Pendleton’s rich history. As a former art teacher and a judge for various regional art shows, Booth not only fostered talent but helped to shape the future of Western art in the region. His art students are a testament to Booth’s belief that art has the power to heal, teach, and inspire.
The Foundation for Today’s Work: A New Chapter in Glacier National Park
While Booth ultimately uprooted his work to the Glacier National Park area in Montana, his years in Pendleton laid the groundwork for his current artistic reality. Pendleton, with its rugged landscapes, Native American heritage, and rodeo culture, served as a pivotal source of inspiration and direction for Booth. His time in Eastern Oregon, not only shaped his artistic techniques and thematic focus, but also nurtured a deep connection to the land and its history that continues to inspire his work today. The spirit of Pendleton, the town, its people, and its stories, remain a core part of Booth’s artistic journey, no matter where his travels take him.
Booth’s work in Pendleton, both as an artist and educator, has had a profound and lasting influence on the local community. It is from this foundation that his art continues to evolve. The essence of his time in Pendleton lives on in every brushstroke, every sculpture, and every story he tells through his art to this day.
Gallery of Artist Michael G Booth: https://michaelgbooth.com/