The Coates Western Art Exhibition and Sale

Friends of western art are in for a treat on Friday, Oct. 25 and Saturday, Oct. 26  when The Coates Western Art Exhibition and Sale takes place in the David Southern Lake Granbury Conference Center.

The exclusive event is expected to draw both locals and visitors with an eye for fine art - both traditional and contemporary. Friday, Oct 25 is the special preview V.I.P. event. Art patrons and enthusiasts attending the V.I.P. event can expect the opportunity to mingle with the artists while enjoying food, beverages and music.

The Coates show is sponsored by the Granbury Arts Alliance, concurrent with the Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts sponsored by the Historic Granbury Merchants Association.

In just its fourth year since conception the Coates show has moved to the conference center this year to allow the room necessary for the growing event.

The concept for the show began in 2021 when Hood County resident Ron Sutton, joined by Ken Hackett contacted the Coates family to seek permission to host an art show in honor of Dan and Judy Coates.

Dan passed away in 2005, and Judy passed away in 2021. Dan, a financial services executive and accomplished sculptor and Judy, a homemaker, and skilled interior designer had worked tirelessly to serve Hood County, promote Granbury and to support the arts.

News is spreading about the relatively new show; event coordinators have already been approached by artists from as far as California that hope to be included next year.

The Coates family has been honored that an art exhibition was born to honor Dan and Judy. Their daughter Courtney Coates Blackman said her down to earth parents would be so surprised.

“My mom and Dad would have never believed such a thing, and also would have said there is no need, no need to do that and certainly no need to name it after us,” shared Courtney Coates Blackman. 

Part of the proceeds will benefit the Shanley Sculpture Garden. The Shanley Park Association is collecting funds to purchase a sculpture of Dan Coates created by well-known Granbury artist Mike Tabor.

The V.I.P. event is from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, the show is open again on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. For tickets to the V.I.P. event call 817-996-8669.