New monument to go on display in front of Western Spirit

A new, eight-foot tall monument called, “Way of the Wild, 1832,” by western artist John Coleman will be installed in front of the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West in December.

The monument was donated by museum trustee Howie Alper and will be unveiled at a private ceremony on Dec. 1 before going on display.

“Way of the Wild, 1832” depicts a lone hunter standing tall and confident with his gaze directed into the distance. The commanding figure evokes the independence, determination and uncertainty of life in the American west during the early 19th century.

Visitors inspired by the monument can discover more of John Coleman’s work inside the museum in the ongoing exhibition, “Collecting Stories: John Coleman Bronzes from the Collection of Frankie and Howard Alper.”

The exhibition features a selection of bronzes from Alper’s collection, including Coleman’s 10-piece Explorer Artist Series, inspired by 19th-century paintings by George Catlin and Karl Bodmer.

For more information about current exhibits, educational programming, memberships, and upcoming events, visit Westernspirit.org.