Today we’d like to introduce you to Margaret Drake.
Hi Margaret, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Margaret strives for accuracy as well as aesthetics when creating realistic figures of animals and humans. Originally from Northwestern Colorado ranching country, Margaret first learned she had a propensity for sculpting after she retired from working 30 years in research in the pharmaceutical industry.
Margaret has taken several workshops from noted western art sculptors and patineurs.
Most sculptors do not do their own patina work, as it means having to master the chemistry involved in oxidizing metal in conjunction with carefully applied heat. Margaret learned patination through working with a master patineur in the field. She does her own patinas, often quite colorful, thus making each piece unique.
Margaret’s work has appeared in many prestigious juried shows throughout the United States. She has also taught sculpting at the prestigious Western Art Academy at Schreiner University, Kerrville, Texas.
Awards
2016 Best of show Breckenridge fine art show , Breckenridge, TX “OHITIKA”
2017 Permanent acquisition , Museum of Western Art, Kerrville, Tx, Mr Remingtons Cowboy
2020 Permanent acquisition , George W Bush International Airport, Houston, Tx (purchased by the city of Houston) “Andaluz”
2023 – Directors Choice Award and permanent acquisition by Pearce Museum of Western Art, Corsicana, Tx, “First Saddle”
2023 Permanent Acquisition, Museum of the First Americans, Oklahoma City, Ok*
*note: the Kiowa Black Leggings Society has submitted the piece to the museum and are awaiting word of acceptance
2023 Permanent acquisition, Kiowa Casino, Devol, Ok, “Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior”
2024 “Special Mention Award”— Breckenridge Fine Art Show, Breckenridge, TX, “First Saddle”
2025 – Permanent Acquisition, Desert Caballeros Western Museum, Wickenburg, AZ, “Descent”
2025 – Director’s Choice – CowgirlUp! Show, Desert Caballeros Museum, Wickenburg, AZ, “Descent”, “El Leon”, and “Chaparral”
2026 – Permanent Acquisition, Museum of Western Art, Kerrville, Tx, “First Saddle”
2026- Mayor’s Choice – CowgirlUp! Show, Sigler Western Art Museum, Wickenburg, AZ, “Wagon Deep, Mules Steady”
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Every sculpture begins with a new set of technical questions. Rather than seeing these as obstacles, I embrace them as an essential part of my creative process. Each challenge demands a unique solution, and in finding those solutions, the work develops its own identity. The technical journey becomes inseparable from the finished piece, leaving its mark on both the process and the sculpture itself.
Working in Western sculpture also means navigating a field that has historically been, and continues to be, largely male-dominated and intensely competitive. Finding my place within that tradition requires the same persistence, curiosity, and resilience that I bring to the studio. Both the technical and personal challenges of this path continue to shape my practice and deepen my commitment to the work.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create tabletop bronze sculptures inspired by the Western landscape and wildlife. My work is characterized by a commitment to realism and a close attention to detail, with each piece carefully observed and thoughtfully crafted to capture both the physical presence and the spirit of its subject. I also apply my own patinas, using color as an extension of the sculptural form to enhance depth, mood, and individuality. The patina is an integral part of my creative process, allowing each bronze to develop its own unique character.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I am a Signature member of Women Artists of the West, a juried organization dedicated to promoting women artists. Many of these members have offered invaluable advice about competitions. Also, these artists are all very competent and serve as excellent mentors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.margaretdrakestudio.com
- Instagram: @margaretdrakestudio
- Facebook: Margaret Drake Studio
- Twitter: @margaretdrakestudio
