A Night of Nebraska Art: Traveling Show and Local Talent at the Art Guild

McCook Neb. - The McCook ArtGuild will host its monthly artist reception tonight, Friday, July 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring three unique exhibitions on display through July 31.

In the Main Gallery

The Association of Nebraska Art Clubs (ANAC) Traveling Show brings some of Nebraska’s most celebrated artwork to McCook. ANAC is the only organization in the U.S. that unites all of a state’s art clubs. Each year, hundreds of entries are judged by a nationally recognized artist, with 25 top pieces chosen to travel statewide.

This year’s traveling show includes works from artists across Nebraska, reflecting a wide range of mediums and styles. After leaving McCook, the show will move on to Grand Island.

In the Vault: Dennis Arp

Culbertson artist Dennis Arp—a former taxidermist and award-winning wildlife painter—is showing a mix of wildlife and landscape paintings this month. Arp has earned recognition in multiple state duck and trout stamp competitions, and his deep knowledge of wildlife anatomy brings authenticity to his natural scenes.

Upstairs in the Grandview Gallery: Anita Mockry

Cambridge native Anita Mockry fills the Grandview Gallery with prints celebrating the beauty of the female form in all its shapes and sizes. A recent graduate of Fort Hays State University with a degree in Printmaking, Mockry uses her work to advocate for body positivity and diversity in art.

Mockry, who served as a judge for last year’s ANAC competition, also gives viewers a rare look at the process of printmaking. One of her carved print plates, on display with her finished works, reveals the incredible detail and craftsmanship required to create her intricate prints.

She will begin pursuing a Master’s degree in Printmaking at Wichita State University in 2026.

The ArtGuild is located at 209 Norris Ave., McCook. Tonight’s reception is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to explore all three galleries.