CLEWISTON — The Clewiston Museum will welcome Okeechobee rancher, author, businessman, artist, and cowboy Brad Phares for a special program on Florida’s cattlemen on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the museum.

Brad Phares [Courtesy photo]

An eighth-generation Florida cattle rancher, Phares will share stories that highlight the rich history of Florida’s cattle ranching industry through his family’s firsthand experiences. His engaging presentations have drawn large audiences in the past, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early. The museum will open at 6 p.m. for “Museum After Hours,” and admission will be waived for the evening.

Raised on a working ranch, Phares later attended the University of Florida, where he majored in agriculture before earning a law degree. He has since pursued a diverse career, continuing his family’s ranching legacy while also authoring several books and creating artwork that captures the beauty of Florida’s landscapes and ranch life through photography and painting.

Creekside Poinciana - A painting by Brad Phares

In addition to his work as a rancher and artist, Phares is an entrepreneur and culinary enthusiast, producing a line of hot sauces, salsas, and preserves. He and his wife, Sam, operate their family business, Cowhunters Unlimited, where they offer his artwork, books, specialty food products, and gear, as well as host the Between the Beaches podcast.

Complementing the evening’s program, the museum will feature the “Florida Cowboys” photographic exhibit by Naples photographer Michelle Tricca. This compelling collection captures the rugged beauty and enduring traditions of Florida’s ranching communities, portraying what Tricca describes as the “soulful lifestyle” of the American cowboy.

Artist Michelle Tricca

Photo by Michelle Tricca Photography

“Similar to the artist’s life, a cowboy’s life goes beyond a career—it is a soulful lifestyle that chooses you,” said Tricca. “I’m interested in enduring subcultures rooted in maintaining historic traditions.”

The exhibit is part of the Arts and Agriculture initiative, which brings art experiences to rural communities where agriculture plays a vital role in business, land use, and culture. The program fosters connections between artists and local communities while promoting cultural events throughout rural Florida.

“Florida Cowboys” will be on display at the museum through April 30 and is supported by the Florida Cultural Alliance, the State of Florida Department of State, and additional sponsors.

The evening’s events are free and open to the public and will conclude with a short reception sponsored by Arts and Agriculture.

The Clewiston Museum is a private, nonprofit organization that relies on donations, grants, memberships, and fundraising events to support its operations. The museum is located at 109 Central Avenue in Clewiston and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Saturday hours available by appointment.

Contact the museum: 863-983-2870 or director@clewistonmuseum.org.