Works by Prolific Western Painter To Celebrate Bicentennial of Lewis & Clark Expedition

New exhibit opening November 9 is ideal match for Lewis & Clark movie now playing at National Geographic Theater at Hearst Castle

SAN SIMEON, CA - As an ideal complement to its currently playing National Geographic movie, "Lewis & Clark," the National Geographic Theater at Hearst Castle is showcasing the works of renowned Western artist, Robert L. "Bob" Rickards of Thousand Oaks, beginning November 9, 2002. There will be an opening reception on November 23rd benefiting the Cambria Historical Society.
Famous for the warm, dramatic and expressive technique of his oil paintings that recall the beauty, excitement and danger of the early American West, Rickards, originally from Wichita, Kansas, has spent more than 23 years completing this collection based on the writings of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. His 84 oil paintings on the subject illustrate the expedition from its launch in May of 1804 through its conclusion in September of 1806.

Starting in 2003, in honor of the Lewis & Clark bicentennial, Rickards' collection will visit a number of other locations throughout the country.
Forty-two of Rickards' works will be displayed at the National Geographic Theater. Reproductions are available for purchase through ARAMARK as well as online at www.rlrickardswesternart.com

The exhibit and parking are free. The Theater lobby is open daily from 8:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., and until 7 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. "Lewis & Clark," the movie, shows at 9:45 a.m. Tuesday through Friday, and at 6:15 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Call or visit the theater web site for show times in December. "Hearst Castle - Building the Dream" can be seen every 45 minutes daily on the five-story screen at the National Geographic Theater at Hearst Castle. Call the Theater at 927-6811 or visit www.ngtheater.com for more information.

Contact: Nancy Merrifield, General Manager 927-6811