State of the Art: Wyoming
When thinking of Wyoming, one might imagine vast plains with grazing cattle, large swaths of greenery, babbling creeks and the classic Western imagery of the expansive ranch with knobbly wooden fences. One might also think of Yellowstone National Park, the oldest national park in the country when Ulysses S. Grant signed the park into existence in 1972, or the mountainous Grand Teton National Park. A state that prides itself on grand masses of federally protected land, Wyoming may also conjure images of wildlife refuges, soaring mountain peaks, a number of historic sites and two national monuments—the geological wonders of Devils Tower and Fossil Butte.
Amidst the earthly wonders it offers, this beautiful state embraces the arts as well, with galleries, artists, museums and arts events across the state, many of which celebrate Western history and culture.
The Jackson Hole valley in the far western region of the state is home to an array of Western art galleries, including Trailside Galleries, Legacy Gallery and Mountain Trails Gallery. A city with a vibrant arts culture, Jackson also holds the annual Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival, taking place this year from September 5 through 16, celebrating 34 years. Throughout this 11-day spectacle, visitors can partake in dozens of events from art walks to silent auctions to beer, wine and spirits tastings. During the Palates & Palettes Gallery Walk, more than 30 galleries open their doors for a wondrous blend of art, wine and food. The Jackson Hole Art Auction gives collectors the opportunity to purchase works from renowned artists at a variety of price points. Big Horn Galleries in Cody showcases a variety of landscape, wildlife and Western works, representing dozens of Western artists
from across the country.
A number of museums capture the culture and history of the Cowboy State as well. The Whitney Western Art Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West displays sculptures and paintings of Western landscapes, wildlife and people. Celebrating Native American art and culture, The Brinton Museum sits on the 620acre Quarter Circle A Ranch in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains.
In the state capital, Cheyenne Frontier
Days at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old
West Museum is an exhilarating Western extravaganza—and while the main event is 10 days long, the CFD Western Art Show &
Sale runs from July 19 to August 19, featuring original artwork from some of the top Western artists in the country.
Throughout this special section, readers can learn about other artists, galleries and museums in Wyoming as well, including Altamira Fine Art, Bozeman Trail Gallery, Dave Mcnally, Deselms Fine Art, Den Schofield, Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce, Kathy Wipfler, The National Museum of Wildlife Art and Wilcox Gallery.