Wide Open in West Texas

The Big Bend area has always been one of the most alluring places in the South. On one highway, a trio of towns-Marfa, Alpine, and Marathon-show that untamed geography stirs an inspiring spirit.

Makin' It Rattle
Cary Jobe

Makin' It Rattle

A block down Holland Avenue at Kiowa Gallery, the spirited Keri Artzt greets me at the door, as colorfully dressed as the walls in her place. “You don’t come to Alpine for a mall fix,” Peggy Martin, a nine-year employee, says. “But we can make it rattle if we need to.” In a town of painted murals―I see several driving from Kiowa to the Big Bend Saddlery―Alpineers draw from the same creative wellspring as do its sister towns.

photo: Artist Camp Bosworth's wood pieces play off Big Bend life.

NextListen to the Music

High Desert Inspiration

Previous Slide High Desert Inspiration

Listen to the Music

Next Slide Listen to the Music

8 of 19
Makin' It Rattle

  • Loading comments...

Add your comment

The rules: Keep it clean, and stay on the subject or we might delete your comment. If you see inappropriate language, e-mail us. An asterisk * indicates a required field.

500 characters remaining

More Ways To Get Southern Living

Advertisement

MOST POPULAR
1
86 Top-Rated Desserts

This luscious collection of desserts was chosen by you! They're so delicious you'll definitely be tempted to eat dessert first.

Caramelized Banana Pudding