New Deal Murals

New Deal Murals

Tom Lea’s 1940 Stampede mural is a masterpiece of the New Deal era, a time when art lifted the spirits of the American people during difficult times. Originally installed high over the stamp windows at the Odessa Post Office, Tom based the scene on the cowboy poem Little Joe the Wrangler, bringing regional history to life. After the mural was moved to a wall in a 24-hour facility and was severely damaged, Odessans came together to save it. They struck a deal with the U.S. Postal Service in 2014 to restore the painting and move it into the Ellen Noel Museum. Join Randy Ham, Director, of the Odessa Arts Council, who was involved in the restoration of the Stampede. He will discuss the themes and significance of WPA murals and how fortunate communities are to have them. Light bites and conversation follow the presentation.