The Lile Art Gallery in Amarillo, Texas, is more than just a place to view art; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of Route 66. This iconic highway, once a lifeline for travelers and a symbol of American culture, has left an indelible mark on the city, and the gallery is proud to be a part of its rich history. But what makes this story truly captivating is the personal journey of Bob "Crocodile" Lile, the artist behind the gallery, and his unique connection to Route 66.
A Serendipitous Encounter
In 1967, Lile's life took an unexpected turn when he met Dord Fitz, an artist who would become a mentor and a catalyst for his artistic awakening. Fitz, a circuit rider teaching art classes across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles and southwest Kansas, had a profound impact on Lile. He recalls, "He said, 'You know, you need to take art.' I was a Ford dealer, and I replied, 'Well, you need to buy a new Ford.'" This lighthearted exchange marked the beginning of Lile's artistic journey, as he eventually followed Fitz's advice and immersed himself in art classes.
A Love for Art and Route 66
The turning point came in the spring of 1968 in Spearman, where Lile fell in love with art. "I never knew I had any talent, but he was an amazing art teacher," he reflects. This newfound passion led him to build an 18x24-foot gallery on the side of his home in Booker, a place where he could work and showcase his art. But Lile's connection to Route 66 was about to take an even more significant turn.
The Journey of a Lifetime
In 1995, Lile joined the Harley Owens Group on a 17-day tour from Chicago to Santa Monica. This trip was transformative, as he and his wife, Cheryl, fell in love with Route 66 and its vibrant culture. They joined the Texas Association and attended the first international festival in Landrigan, further cementing their connection to this iconic highway. "Just fell in love with the whole deal, and so we’ve been doing it ever since," Lile says with a smile.
Amarillo's Hidden Gem
Lile's passion for Route 66 and its history is infectious. He believes that many travelers miss out on the rich cultural heritage of the San Jacinto district, where there are about 13 blocks of historic Route 66. "If you can spend 10 or 15 minutes, come down and I’ll share with you the amazing people and stories along the way," he invites. His gallery, located at 2719 S.W. 6th Ave., is not just a place to view art; it's a gateway to the past and a celebration of the enduring spirit of Route 66.
A Personal Connection
What makes this story truly fascinating is Lile's personal connection to Route 66. As a child, he remembers visiting Amarillo and gazing at the neon signs along the Amarillo Boulevard. "We need to get those neon signs working so people can go down the boulevard and see that, but we don’t have any neon here on 6th Street," he notes. This nostalgia and his love for the highway's history have driven him to preserve and share its legacy through his gallery.
A Lasting Legacy
The Lile Art Gallery is more than just a business; it's a living, breathing tribute to Route 66 and its enduring impact on American culture. Lile's personal journey, from a Ford dealer to an artist and Route 66 enthusiast, is a testament to the power of serendipity and the enduring spirit of exploration. As he continues to share his passion with visitors, he invites us all to take a step back and appreciate the rich history and culture that Route 66 has to offer. In my opinion, this story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful connections are the ones we make along the way, and the Lile Art Gallery is a shining example of that.
