Larry Bute Exhibit
Experience the art of the Great Basin through the eyes of a true cowboy illustrator.
Painting the Spirit of the West
The Larry Bute Exhibit celebrates the life and work of an artist who turned a cowboy’s experience into timeless Western imagery. Known for his murals, paintings, and illustrations, Bute captures the motion, grit, and humor of buckaroo life with an unmatched authenticity.
His art portrays horses and cowboys in vivid, fluid form—rooted not in photographs, but in memories from years spent working ranches across Nevada, Montana, and Colorado. Visitors will see the West not as legend, but as lived experience—alive with color, movement, and emotion. From small sketches to large-scale murals, every piece reflects Bute’s deep love for Great Basin culture and his dedication to preserving its spirit.
- Fun Fact
Larry Bute has painted more than 300 murals across the American West—many entirely from memory, without using photographs—capturing the movement, spirit, and humor of cowboy life with remarkable authenticity.
Why It Matters: A Living Legacy of Western Heritage
Larry Bute’s work bridges the worlds of cowboy and artist, honoring both with honesty and heart. His career—spanning from commercial illustration to over 300 murals—has left an enduring mark on Nevada’s cultural landscape. Through his art, Bute gives voice to working cowboys, capturing their humor, hardship, and pride with an illustrator’s eye and a ranch hand’s soul. His murals bring local history to life on the walls of Ely, Elko, and beyond, transforming blank spaces into vivid storytelling canvases.
The exhibit reminds visitors that the Great Basin’s beauty isn’t only in its landscapes but in its people—their work, resilience, and creative spirit. Bute’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists who see art not just as decoration, but as a living record of the American West.
What Our Visitors are Saying
"Great Little Town and Musuem. Very Knowledgeable young woman who had lots of information about the town and the cave bear. I Enjoyed the quaint decor inside, and the gifts / Souviners available."
Ann PetersonGoogle Review
"Really nice collection! I did not include pictures of everything, so you will need to visit to see all the treasures they have. The x-ray machine is stunning! They also have a complete Knights Templar uniform that is beautifully displayed. The one room schoolhouse is lovely. Really cool horse drawn manure spreader. Can see it all in couple hours."
Brigitte DubinGoogle Review
"Great slice of history and learning opportunities for kids and people who are not up on US Western history and mining. The cave vera skeleton was a real treat for my 3 year old to see!"
WyntrGoogle Review
"Full of history of the area with a ton of artifacts inside and out. Definitely worth a stop if you're in Ely. Good for your own knowledge and entertainment and too help support the museum also. Definitely check out the short face bear display!"
Brian 1724Google Review
"Not bad for a small town, went here and oh my days this place was amazing, despite me accidentally misgendering the cave bear skeleton (I apologize) it was so much fun! planning on coming back here soon!"
Swift RenardGoogle Review
"This is an awesome museum. We originally stopped on our way through Ely, NV just to pass the time and check out the complete skeleton of the Cave Bear that is on display, which we did and it was magnificent. I didn't expect to be leaving this museum 2 1/2 hours later. There is so much to see here. "
Laryssa B SantiniGoogle Review
"This was a great museum! Lots of cool buildings and exhibits to walk around and the staff was very friendly and helpful!"
Jessica ScanlanGoogle Review
"Hidden gem in historic mining country. The sweetest people, so many cool artifacts from bygone eras, including a short-nose cave bear skeleton! Also vintage-style toys for sale, Amerindian-made jewelry, rocks and crystals, and a really interesting selection of books. The cabin and 100+ year old machinery outside are fascinating to see. Bring your kids and check this place out!"
Gregory MillerGoogle Review
"Nice little museum. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Could use some cleaning but had a good time looking. Of course it was awesome to see the cave bear skeleton! It's well worth the small fee!"
Ch HallGoogle Review
Explore Our Gift Shop
Discover locally inspired treasures, unique souvenirs, books, and handmade crafts that celebrate the spirit and history of White Pine County, all available in our charming museum gift shop.
Exhibit Sponsors
We’re deeply grateful for our generous sponsors - your support brings history to life and makes unforgettable community events possible.
