Deep in the Art of Texas

The J. Wayne Stark Galleries exhibited the art of Edward “Buck” Schiwetz, Class of 1921, last fall as part of a statewide traveling exhibit. Born in Cuero, Texas, Schiwetz majored in architectural design at Texas A&M University and is one of the most well-known Texas artists of his generation.

“Deeply devoted to the history and culture of the Lone Star State, Buck advanced his iconic Texas imagery in a style and technique that kept pace with the rapidly emerging art world around him,” said Linda and Bill Reaves, who recently wrote about his life and work in “The Artistic Legacy of Buck Schiwetz” published by Texas A&M University Press.

Beyond Aggieland, Schiwetz studied at the Art Students League in New York. He returned to Texas, becoming a successful partner in a Houston advertising agency with clients such as Humble Oil, which later became ExxonMobil. He continued to sketch and paint scenes including historic Texas buildings and landscapes until his death in 1984. 

In 1972, he was named a Texas A&M Distinguished Alumnus. In 1974, when he was named artist-in-residence, he created two books that were published by Texas A&M University Press and began the portfolio “Buck Schiwetz’ Aggieland.” 

“Buck’s art evokes various sentiments,” said Pamela Harte ’84, his granddaughter. “It can be a familiar place, a memory or a connection to a particular era of our state’s history.”

Exhibitions of his work continue in Abilene and Austin through January 2025.

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