Ted Long Legacy Room
Ted Long (1932 - 2007)
Welcome to the Ted Long Legacy Room
Step into the world of Ted Long - an artist, cowboy, rancher, and storyteller whose life and work embody the spirit of the American West. Located on the third floor of the Prairie Arts Center, the Ted Long Legacy Room invites you to experience not just his art, but the life behind it.
Born in 1932 on his family’s homestead northwest of North Platte, Ted Long lived a life as rich and authentic as the scenes he painted. He was a soldier, a rodeo rider, a hunter, a family man—and above all, a creator. He didn’t just paint the West—he lived it. His legacy is one of passion, grit, and a deep love for the land and people around him.
The space you’re about to explore is a carefully crafted recreation of Ted’s own studio—a century-old log cabin filled with the tools of his trade and the treasures of a life well lived. From his personal brushes and paints to his final, unfinished piece, every detail reflects the heart and soul he poured into his work. His family designed this room to feel like home—so you don’t just view his art, you feel his presence.
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The Art & Legacy of Ted Long
Ted Long was a self-taught artist whose work was deeply rooted in research, experience, and a lifelong love of the West. Inspired by the journals of Lewis and Clark and the histories of Native American tribes such as the Sioux, Cheyenne, and Pawnee, he brought the past to life with remarkable accuracy and emotion.
Whether painting cowboys, Native American life, or historic moments, Ted immersed himself in every subject - often walking the very ground where history unfolded. His dedication to detail and storytelling earned him recognition as one of the country’s most respected Western artists.
His work can be found in prestigious collections, including the Nebraska Museum of Art and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and even internationally through the U.S. Art in Embassies program.
From powerful bronze sculptures -including the iconic Chief Standing Bear -to vivid oil paintings that capture the spirit of the frontier, Ted’s work continues to inspire and educate generations.
Explore Ted Long's Story Through Video
Dive deeper into the life of Ted Long through a collection of short films that bring his story to life:
A Life Lived Fully
Discover Ted Long's journey from a ranch kid to a respected Western artist. Hear how his experiences shaped his work and why he was known as “the real deal.”
Family & Legacy
Get a glimpse into the heart of Ted Long's world, his wife Margaret and their four children. See how his family was not only part of his life, but part of his creative process.
The Art of the Old West
Learn how a self-taught artist turned passion into mastery. From his early beginnings painting on a window blind to nationally recognized works, Ted’s art captures the stories of a bygone era.
From the Ranch to the Stars
Explore how Ted Long's work reached far beyond Nebraska, into the hands of icons like John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Sam Elliott, and even Ronald Reagan. His authenticity and attention to detail made his work truly unforgettable.
Gallery
Take your time exploring a curated collection of Ted Long’s artwork. Each piece tells a story of adventure, resilience, history, and humanity. From sweeping Western landscapes to intimate portraits and detailed bronzes, his work reflects a life deeply connected to the land and its people.
Shop Ted Long Art
Discover artwork for sale by Ted Long, featuring a collection of prints and sculptures that reflect the spirit, history, and storytelling of the American West. From detailed compositions to striking bronze works, each piece showcases craftsmanship and character, offering a unique opportunity to bring timeless Western-inspired art into your space.
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Plan Your Visit!
There’s something special about experiencing Ted Long’s legacy in person. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious about the stories of the American West, the Ted Long Legacy Room offers a meaningful and memorable experience.
Come explore, connect, and step into a world where history, art, and life come together.
