About the Artist - Morgan Weistling

Santa Clarita resident, Morgan Weistling is recognized as one of America’s top contemporary painters. He draws upon his many years as an illustrator to create masterful compositions. Most often, his subjects are period pieces, evoking a gentle and gracious time. His paintings have a deep sense of history due to research and authentic costumes.

At Autry National Center’s Masters of the American West he was the recipient of the 2000 David P. Usher Patron’s Choice Award, the 2003 the Trustees’ Purchase Award, and the 2007 and 2008 David P. Usher Patron’s Choice and Booth Museum of Western Artists’ Choice awards. In 2001, he became the youngest recipient of the coveted Prix de West Purchase Award and Nona Jean Hulsey Buyer’s Choice Award. In 2008 he received his second Prix de West Purchase award.

We are proud to have Morgan’s masterpiece, “The Dance” as our official poster and festival icon for 2009.