COUNTY LIFE
Tales ‘N’ Trails initiates conservation plans for Dell Motley’s leather artwork
By BARBARA GREEN
editor@bowienewsonline.com
When objects conservator Victoria Book Lupia first saw the massive leather artwork of Dell Motley, it took some time to grasp the mass of these creations that weigh more than 300 pounds and stand 7-8-feet tall.
Now that those two larger pieces have been unframed she is able to get a close-up view and look with admiration at the unique creativity of this leather artist whose work she has been asked to preserve.
The leather art collection of Dell Motley was gifted to Tales ‘N’ Trails Museum in 1996, and while the museum was not completed for 13 more years, the collection is a major exhibit in the TNT. When the museum was being constructed two reinforced walls were built in the Benton Wall to hold them. At this time, the Lord’s Supper and the Fishermen hang in the hall along with other smaller parts of the exhibit.
The Good Shepherd and The Ten Commandments, two of four of her largest art pieces, have been in storage due to their size and they are now being considered for a major preservation project.
Nellann McBroom, TNT curator, said the board voted to take part in an assessment program with Legacy Conservation. The program is part of the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences.
When Victoria Lupia visited the museum last May she noted these two pieces should be revamped to eliminate the plywood backing to something more conducive for preserving leather. McBroom said while that is the main goal, the change also will make them lighter weight to move and hang easier. The museum board has created a unique fundraising campaign where donors can adopt a part of the artwork based on the donation.
Read the full story about this major preservation program in your mid-week Bowie News.
The Ray Walker Memorial VFW Post #8558 will host a Memorial Day service at 11 a.m. on May 26, 100 Baylor Street in Nocona.
The public is invited to attend to celebrate this special holiday to remember those who were killed in service.
Later in the day attend the fundraiser barbecue rib dinner at the Nocona Senior Citizen’s Center. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Enjoy ribs, french fries, beans, cole slaw, dessert and iced tea. Proceeds benefit the center and the Meals on Wheels program of Nocona.
Veterans eat free. Meal prepared by the award winning Nocona High School barbecue team.
Five Montague County high schools will graduate in ceremonies May 23 and May 24.
Make sure to see the 2025 Graduation Keepsake Section in the May 22 edition of The Bowie News. It is the only one to feature seniors from all seven of the area schools including Bowie, Bellevue, Gold-Burg, Forestburg, Nocona, Prairie Valley and Saint Jo.
Bowie High School
The Jackrabbits walk the stage at 8 p.m. on May 23 in Jackrabbit Stadium. Teacher Tabitha Jones was selected by the students to be the speaker.
Seniors Virginia Watson and Boston Farris will pass the mantle of leadership to the junior class represented by Laney Enlow and Hayden Heugatter. Superintendent Blake Enlow will present diplomas.
Read the full story in the Thursday Bowie News.
All members of the Tales ‘N’ Trails Museum or those interested in learning more about Montague County’s largest museum are invited to attend the annual membership meeting at 2 p.m. on May 31.
There will be a short business meeting to elect new directors afterwhich Dr. Sergio Ayala will discuss the museum’s newest archaeological exhibit. He also will conduct, “What’s Your Point?” where guests are invited to bring in artifacts for Dr. Ayala to examine.
All membership are due in May and there are several levels from which to chose starting at $35 a year. TNT is supported by its members along with donations, fundraising and grants. The museum celebrates its 15th years showcasing Montague County’s unique history.
The museum is located at 1522 E. U.S. Highway 82 in Nocona. Call 825-5330 with questions.
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