sunny slopes of long ago

Texas auction lists Western memorabilia from Lonesome Dove, Red Headed Stranger photographer

The estate includes many signed photographs from the set of Lonesome Dove.

Photo by Bill Wittliff, via Vogt Auction/vogtauction.com

In May of 2023, San Antonians got to see some behind-the-scenes pieces of Texas literature history when the personal estate of Lonesome Dove author Larry McMurtry went to auction.

Connections to the book were sometimes a bit abstract, but fans could delight in items like McMurty's writing desk and cowboy boots.

Now the estate of the late Bill Wittliff, screenwriter and photographer for the popular Lonesome Dove miniseries, is going to auction too, by the same group: Vogt Auction. But this time, the Western connection looks more obvious, prominently featuring more than 30 photographs — most of them signed — from on-location, plus more Western collectables.

Fans ready to bid an estimated $3,000-8,000 can take home photos of Tommy Lee Jones during his costume fitting; pensive portraits of Robert Duvall in character; and majestic shots on horseback that can contribute to any West-honoring space, with just a subtle nod to the story for people in the know.

Other items include photos with a strong Texas feeling, but no explicit connection to Lonesome Dove (such as photos of Willie Nelson in connection with Red Headed Stranger, which Wittliff also shot), movie posters, furniture, a smoking pipe connection, several revolvers, indigenous American artifacts, and many books.

Darrell Royal and Willie Nelson Football player and coach Darrell Royal with friend and country music icon Willie Nelson.Photo by Bill Wittliff, via Vogt Auction

Some items are estimated to settle as low as $60, so there is something for almost any collector. The collection can be viewed at vogtauction.com, so even (virtual) window shoppers are welcome.

Interested Texans and travelers can view the collection in-person at a series of gallery previews:

Wednesday, November 8, 10 am to 6 pm
Thursday, November 9, 10 am to 6 pm
Friday, November 10, 10 am to 6 pm
Saturday, November 11, 10:00 am to 1 pm

The auction will start immediately after the Saturday preview concludes at 1 pm. The Vogt website says its auctions are "fun and friendly," open to the public, and do not charge an entry free. Instructions on submitting a bid (in person, by written bid, by phone, or live online) are available at vogtauction.com.

Vogt Auction is located in San Antonio at 7233 Blanco Rd.

tv books galleries auction western art

after dark

Houston hip-hop star Mike Jones headlines immersive night of art and music

Courtesy of Silver Street Studios

A rendering previews Art After Dark.

A premier Houston events venue is hosting a night of immersive art headlined by a local hip-hop legend. Art After Dark will take place at Silver Street Studios on Saturday, October 24.

For one night, the Warehouse at Silver Street (2000 Edwards St.) will transform into a performance venue with large-scale projection-mapped images created for the event along with images of work created by local artists. Houston rapper Mike Jones will headline the event, preceded by local DJs (specific performers to be announced).

“Sawyer Yards has always been about bringing creativity and community together-a place where magic can happen,” Sawyer Yards co-owner Steve Gibson said in a statement. “Art After Dark builds on that spirit in a fresh and exciting way, inviting people to experience the campus, our artists and Houston's creative community from an entirely new perspective.”

Known for his signature hit “Still Tippin,” Jones will perform a 45-minute, headlining set. Those who know the Warehouse at Silver Street as the host of events such as the CultureMap Tastemaker Awards will find it completely transformed with projection, lighting, and sound throughout the space. Food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the event.

“With Art After Dark, we wanted to create something that feels less like attending a traditional art event and more like stepping into an experience,” Sawyer Yards events director Liz Lopez added. “By bringing together art, music, projection, technology and nightlife, we’re transforming The Warehouse at Silver Street for one night and giving guests a completely different way to experience Sawyer Yards.”

Tickets are on sale now, with special early bird pricing available through Friday, September 25. Currently, general admission tickets are priced at $50 and will go up to $65. VIP tickets, $150/$165, include access to a dedicated viewing area, bar, entry, and a trading card.

After Art Dark will take place from 7-11 pm.