Spirit of the West: The Art of Don Brestler

Peter Harmathy teaches fine arts in Victoria.

Arjun Gupta was managing editor of Aperture, the world’s leading
publisher of photographic art; he is currently working on a book about
Albrecht Dьrer (1471–1528), one of the great artists of the Northern
Renaissance. In Spirit of the West, Gupta makes a special case in
support of “frontier or cowboy art,” a genre of painting practiced
by self-taught artist Don Brestler.

Brestler’s 81 oil paintings, traditional in style, will appeal to
those longing for the romantic spirit of bygone days. The work is
divided into three categories: “A Cowboy’s Life,” “Wildlife,”
and “Home on the Range.” Within each category, Gupta provides
fascinating historic information and discusses formal and expressive
qualities of key artworks. In this way, the background serves to engage
and guide the reader toward a deeper understanding of and appreciation
for Brestler’s art. Whether viewed as clichéd, nostalgic,
melancholic, or melodramatic, these are all devices necessary to
transport the viewer into the mind and spirit of those who enjoyed and
endured this frontier life.

Brestler was born in Calgary during the Depression. He worked as a
cowboy, a bronco rider in rodeos, and a constable before pursuing a
career in art. In addition to his paintings, he also designs and
illustrates greeting cards. Spirit of the West is a fine tribute to a
fine artist.