The tree is on the side of the road, by the Bob Helmers Ranch. The tree has changed somewhat in the 40 years since this painting was made. First, there is a major highway passing by the tree, instead of this lonely caliche road. The trunk and limbs are now bigger, thanks to the passage of four decades of time. Unfortunately, several of the low hanging limbs coming from the left side of the tree were lost at some point in the past. Even with these changes, the scene still looks basically the same. In early March each year, following the spring rains, the land comes alive with Blue Bonnets and wild flowers, and the pasture looks just like this painting. I make it a point to return to West Texas each spring, and drive by the tree, and experience in real life the beauty captures in this painting. This is a dramatic painting of the Texas Hill Country in Spring, and would make a wonderful addition to any home. I assure you it will become the center of attention wherever it is displayed. Perhaps you too will periodically visit the old tree in spring time like I do. This oil painting by Rita McWhorter has hung in the United States Capitol Building in the office of Senator John Tower of Texas. It is a classic piece of fine western art, and one that will be cherished for generations to come. |