In the February 2026 edition of GreeneScene Magazine, I highlighted wildlife artist Kyle Sims from Bozeman, Montana. We were able to tour his studio and see several of the paintings he was working on at different stages of completion. One Painting in particular, depicting two large bull bison fighting, was in the final stages in preparation for the Prix de West western and wildlife show.
The Prix de West Art Show is one of the most prestigious exhibitions of contemporary Western art in the United States. Hosted annually by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City since 1973, the invitational exhibition celebrates the beauty, history, and culture of the American West through exceptional paintings and sculptures. The show features works by many of the nation’s leading Western artists, who are invited based on their artistic excellence and contributions to the genre.
The exhibition presents a wide variety of subjects, including dramatic landscapes, Native American heritage, wildlife, ranch life, and historical scenes. Visitors have the opportunity to view hundreds of original works, many of which are available for purchase during the exhibition’s highly anticipated fixed-price art sale (not an auction…the price is displayed on the painting). The show also has seminars, artist demonstrations, award presentations, and special events that allow visitors to interact with artists and gain insight into their creative processes.
The Prix de West has become a significant event for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike. It promotes the preservation of Western heritage while showcasing the highest standards of contemporary Western art.
Kyle was able to sell all three of the paintings he entered in the show with the bison painting fetching an impressive $45,000.
His masterful oil paintings, inspired by firsthand observation of wildlife and the American West, consistently attract collectors and frequently sell during the prestigious event. Sims’ ability to combine technical precision with dramatic light, movement, and atmosphere has earned him multiple awards, including the Major General and Mrs. Don D. Pittman Wildlife Award.
His strong sales at Prix de West reflect both the enduring appeal of his work and his reputation as a premier artist in contemporary Western and wildlife art.
I am proud to call him my friend, and I look forward to seeing his future works. You can view Kyle’s work at www.kylesims.com.
A memorable handoff – Kyle Simms and the painting’s new owner
