Did you know that Mary Virginia Carson was the first modern person to document the ancient rock art murals of the Lower Pecos Canyonlands?
In 1931, the Witte Memorial Museum hired Carson—an artist, architect and engineer—to join an expedition into the wilds of western Texas. Her mission? To capture the stunning rock art murals created thousands of years ago by the first people of Texas. Perched on hot rocks beneath a blazing sun, Carson rendered the images before her in watercolor with remarkable accuracy.
From over 5,000 years ago to recent historic times, people lived in small groups on the plains and beneath enormous rock overhangs of the Lower Pecos. Within these rock shelters, they gathered for generations, leaving behind vibrant and complex murals—some of the most nuanced and awe-inspiring rock art in the world.
Journey with Carson across the Canyonlands. Follow her route from site to site as she carefully documented these vivid works of art. Explore her watercolors—some never-before-displayed—and her fieldnotes. Then, discover the modern archeological research that continues to validate Carson’s groundbreaking observations.
A true pioneer, Carson’s work has captured the murals for future generations and increased public access. She was the first to recognize their complex compositions, crediting their motifs and structure to highly skilled ancient artists. Today, with advanced technologies like 3-D modeling and Gigapan imaging, archeologists and scientists can confirm what Carson saw nearly a century ago—the profound significance and skill of these ancient artists.
Don’t miss the chance to explore this rarely told story of artistic discovery and perseverance. Immerse yourself in the world of Mary Virginia Carson and uncover the mysteries of Texas rock art—a journey that continues to inspire exploration of the rich history and artistry of the Lower Pecos.
For a deeper understanding of the People of the Pecos, be sure to visit the Kittie West Nelson Ferguson People of the Pecos Gallery during your visit.
