Charlie Russell, an American West artist of the early 20th Century, painted more than 2,000 paintings in his lifetime.

Drawing on his years as a cowboy living out West, Russell had the ability to breathe life into his paintings with each brush stroke.

From cowboys and Indians to quintessential Western themes and landscapes, Russell has his place among the greatest artists.

“If you are into cowboy art, you know who Russell is,” said Jim Dunham, director of special projects at the Booth Western Art Museum. “Charlie Russell was probably the single most important cowboy artist in the world.”

Born in Missouri, Russell had his breakout in the art world in 1887. His watercolor, “Waiting for a Chinook,” which depicted a hard winter in the Northern Plains, captured the interest of art enthusiasts of that time.

“That little painting became famous,” Dunham said.

Dunham said most of Russell’s success can be tied to his wife Nancy, who motivated him.

“If it hadn’t been for his wife Nancy, he would not have been as successful,” Dunham said.

Dunham will portray Russell in “Trails Plowed Under: An Evening with Charlie Russell” held Sept. 20 in the Booth Ballroom at 6:30 p.m.

This show features Dunham painting and performing as Russell. During the show, Dunham will complete a copy of one of Russell’s paintings and recite favorite passages from Russell’s book, “Trails Plowed Under.”

As Dunham paints, Jim Dorsett will perform Western songs related to the work of Russell. Tickets are $25 members and $30 for non-members, which include a buffet-style dinner.

There also will be a chance to win the painting Dunham completes during the show.

Dunham said Russell is known for his uncanny ability to capture his perception of the West on canvas.

“He was a cowboy and he loved to capture the cowboy in his natural setting,” Dunham said.

Information: (770) 387-1300 or www.boothmuseum.org