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Artist Gardens »
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"Wonderful stories of the Indian cultures and beliefs, this is a learning experience."

Linda G. Stirling United Kingdom

On your way to the Keeper of the Plains, take some time to enjoy our artist gardens. Located between the Keeper and the Indian Museum, our gardens pay tribute to two influential and beloved artists: Blackbear Bosin and Woody Crumbo.​​

 

Blackbear Bosin

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Blackbear Bosin played a prominent role in the Wichita art community. While born in Oklahoma, Bosin's influence can still be felt in the Air Capital city. Bosin designed the iconic Keeper of the Plains and was a founder of the Mid-America All-Indian Museum. Much of Bosin's work is on permanent display at the Indian Museum.

The garden features one of Bosin's most famous pieces, "Prairie Fire," which he created in 1953. The piece was featured in National Geographic in 1955.​​​

 

Woody Crumbo

Woody Crumbo's influence stretches from Wichita all the way into the Southwest. He was an artist, flautist and dancer. His work has been displayed at the Smithsonian and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Crumbo attended Wichita University, which is now Wichita State University, from 1933 to 1936. He also played flute in the Wichita Symphony. Crumbo was commissioned by the U.S. Department of the Interior to create murals to be displayed inside their buildings. Queen Elizabeth II and former U.S. presidents own some of Crumbo's work.​​​​​