Local artist back for Nevada Day Art Show in Carson City

After a four-year hiatus from art exhibits, local artist Scott Tyzbir is back by popular demand.

That’s according to his wife, Wendi, a sales executive for Evans Broadcast Company. The last time he displayed his work in a gallery was 2010.

“He won second place and it was during the Nevada Day Art Show,” she said. “But during his break, he came out with 35 new drawings.”

Tyzbir, 51, will be showcasing his work at this year’s Nevada Day Art show on Oct. 23, hosted by the Nevada Artists’ Association. His art also can be viewed at open galleries in Comma Coffee’s Backseat Gallery, and at Carson City Art Gallery and Pottery on 110 South Curry St.

His medium is graphite drawing with Native American, fantasy and religious themes. Some of the inspiration comes from his parents, who bought and sold Native American artifacts on the powwow circuits. His heritage also is Cherokee and Sioux.

“My passion brought me back to galleries,” he said. “Each drawing starts talking to me as I work on it. They’re like children.”

Tyzbir didn’t get into drawing until his 14-year-old son, Cody, died in 2004 from sudden heart failure.

Cody is his main inspiration because he wanted to be a tattoo artist when he grew up. Tyzbir said his talent is a gift from his son as each drawing gives him a connection.

Since then, he’s produced more than 300 drawings.

“I hope people will enjoy it,” he said. “It’s perfect timing for Nevada Day. I feel like I’m contributing to the local community by being a part of the art scene.”

Tyzbir will be one of the few graphite artists participating in the judged show. There will be seven media categories with awards in each for first, second and third places with honorable mentions.

One of his latest pieces of work is called “Eagle Valley” and is expected to be on display.

“Graphite is a lost art compared to art with technology,” said Wendi. “I think this will be a great year back for him and traffic from the Nevada Day parade will help. This community is starving for artists and it’s hard to promote yourself.”

Tyzbir also is a 1984 Carson High School graduate. He has another son, Brenon, and three step-children: Garrette, Heather, Julio and Skylar.

The annual Nevada Day art exhibition will be on display at Carson City’s Brewery Arts Center, from Oct. 23-Jan. 6.