Thus ends the Wyoming arts year, not to be confused with the Wyoming Arts Council fiscal year (July 1-June 30) or the federal fiscal year as observed by the National Endowment for the Arts (Oct. 1-Sept. 30).
We won't offer any end-of-the-year wrap-ups. However, if you want to revisit 2007 arts highlights in the state, feel free to click away at any of the links in our helpful sidebar on the right side of the page.
See you in ought-eight.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Keeping track... and 2 competitions
Feeling overwhelmed by the number of writing competitions? Having trouble deciding which ones to enter? Are deadlines passing you by? Poets & Writers Magazine offers a unique service to its readers. Every two months it publishes a listing of the competitions for grants and contest awards whose deadlines will come due soon. This editorial feature lists only competitions that will benefit a writer's career and only those (with a few exceptions for prizes of stature) that offer $1,000 or more.
FMI, go to:
http://www.pw.org/mag/grantsawards.htm
Santa Fe Writers Project Literary Awards:
A prize of $2,000 will be given annually for a work of fiction or creative nonfiction. A second-place prize of $1,500 and a third-place prize of $1,000 will also be awarded. All entries will be considered for publication by SFWP Press. Robert Olen Butler will judge. Submit up to 25 pages of prose with a $30 entry fee, or $25 for students, by December 31. Call, e-mail, or visit the Web site for complete guidelines.
Santa Fe Writers Project Literary Awards
369 Montezuma Avenue, #350
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Kyle Semmel, Development Editor lap07@sfwp.com
http://www.sfwpawards.com/
Ellen Meloy Fund Desert Writers Award
A prize of $2,000 is given annually to enable creative nonfiction writers to spend creative time in a desert environment. Using the online submission system, submit up to 10 pages of creative nonfiction, a project description, and a biography by December 31. There is no entry fee. Call or visit the Web site for complete guidelines.
Ellen Meloy Fund, Desert Writers Award
P.O. Box 484, Bluff, UT 84512.
(435) 669-5326. Greer Chesher, Contact.
fund@ellenmeloy.com or
http://www.ellenmeloy.com/
FMI, go to:
http://www.pw.org/mag/grantsawards.htm
Santa Fe Writers Project Literary Awards:
A prize of $2,000 will be given annually for a work of fiction or creative nonfiction. A second-place prize of $1,500 and a third-place prize of $1,000 will also be awarded. All entries will be considered for publication by SFWP Press. Robert Olen Butler will judge. Submit up to 25 pages of prose with a $30 entry fee, or $25 for students, by December 31. Call, e-mail, or visit the Web site for complete guidelines.
Santa Fe Writers Project Literary Awards
369 Montezuma Avenue, #350
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Kyle Semmel, Development Editor lap07@sfwp.com
http://www.sfwpawards.com/
Ellen Meloy Fund Desert Writers Award
A prize of $2,000 is given annually to enable creative nonfiction writers to spend creative time in a desert environment. Using the online submission system, submit up to 10 pages of creative nonfiction, a project description, and a biography by December 31. There is no entry fee. Call or visit the Web site for complete guidelines.
Ellen Meloy Fund, Desert Writers Award
P.O. Box 484, Bluff, UT 84512.
(435) 669-5326. Greer Chesher, Contact.
fund@ellenmeloy.com or
http://www.ellenmeloy.com/
Artists converge on Casper
The Wyoming Artists Association Convention will be in Casper April 25, 26, and 27, 2008. The theme is "Impressionism or Expressionism." This convention is fun and educational as well as offering fantastic opportunities to interact with artists from all over the state. Enter art shows, Quick Draw & Auction, and costumes are encouraged. Much more!
FMI: Barb Oslie, 1221 12th St., Cody, WY, 82414 or call her at (307) 587-3217.
FMI: Barb Oslie, 1221 12th St., Cody, WY, 82414 or call her at (307) 587-3217.
Prize-winning "Wrecked" at WYO Theater
On Tuesday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m., the WYO Theater in Sheridan presents the Roseneath Theatre's Wrecked. The play "tackles the issues of alcohol abuse in the lives of teenagers and their families with intelligent humor, subversive wit and candid reality. Through innovative staging and contrasting performance styles, the play presents two perspectives: teenagers as victims of parental alcohol abuse and teenagers themselves as abusers. Hip to teen culture, playwright Chris Craddock has done a rare thing - he's created an engaging and provocative theatre experience about significant social issues that is funny, entertaining and accessible to teens without compromising the power of its educational agenda."Wrecked was named the winner of the Dora Awards for Outstanding Production and Performance. It also won the 2006 Canada Council of the Arts' T.Y.A. Prize.
Tickets are on sale now: $22 for adults, $20 senior and military, $15 stduents, and $10 children.
Call the box office at 307-672-9084.
"Dancing at Lughnasa" at Stage III
"Dancing at Lughnasa," Stage III Theatre's first show of 2008, will open on Jan. 11. It's the story of five sisters in 1936 Ireland, and is directed by Douglas Garland. He's the first to direct a show under Stage III's new guest director program."Dancing at Lughnasa" will play Jan. 11, 12, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre located at 900 N. Center St. in Casper. There will be a matinee on Jan. 20 at 2 p.m.
Season ticket holders may call for reservations at 307-234-0946. Tickets will also be available at Metro Coffee Company, Cadillac Cowgirl, and Grant Street Grocery.
IN PHOTO ABOVE: During rehearsals for "Dancing at Lughnasa," sisters Aggie (Teresa Petrosky Wallace) and Kate (Janet Mackenzie) square off for an argument.
NIC closed in January for remodeling
The Nicolaysen Art Museum & Discovery Center in Casper will be closed to the public during January for installation of new hardwood floors and three new exhibits. The museum will reopen Feb. 1.
For more information, call 307-235-5247
For more information, call 307-235-5247
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Call for entries: UW Art Museum
The University of Wyoming Art Museum in Laramie has issued a "Call for Work" for the 33rd annual Juried Student Exhibition, Feb. 2-March 1, 2008, and the UW Student Art League 13th annual Salon des Refusés in the UP Gallery, Jan. 27-Feb. 9, 2008.
Juror will be Linda Frickman, director of the Colorado State University Art Museum in Fort Collins, Colo.
Cash awards offered: Ann Simpson and Family Award, Lisa Lewis Dubois Student Exhibition Award, the FMC Honors Award, Margaret Arth Award for Excellence, First Interstate Bank, the National Advisory Board, UW A&S Dean's Office, the UW Student Art League, and the University of Wyoming Art Museum Purchase awards: Joe C. Tull Memorial Purchase Award in Printmaking and Photography, UW President's Office, UW Office of Academic Affairs, Office of Student Affairs, UW Division of Administration, UW Libraries, UW College of Health Sciences, the UW Outreach School, and the Murdock/UW College of Law Purchase Award.
Awards will be announced on Friday, Feb. 1, at 6:30 p.m.
Exhibition schedule:
Juror will be Linda Frickman, director of the Colorado State University Art Museum in Fort Collins, Colo.
Cash awards offered: Ann Simpson and Family Award, Lisa Lewis Dubois Student Exhibition Award, the FMC Honors Award, Margaret Arth Award for Excellence, First Interstate Bank, the National Advisory Board, UW A&S Dean's Office, the UW Student Art League, and the University of Wyoming Art Museum Purchase awards: Joe C. Tull Memorial Purchase Award in Printmaking and Photography, UW President's Office, UW Office of Academic Affairs, Office of Student Affairs, UW Division of Administration, UW Libraries, UW College of Health Sciences, the UW Outreach School, and the Murdock/UW College of Law Purchase Award.
Awards will be announced on Friday, Feb. 1, at 6:30 p.m.
Exhibition schedule:
- Thursday-Friday, Jan. 17-18, deliver work to the Art Museum, 9 a.m.-noon, 1-4 p.m.
- Wednesday, Jan. 23, accepted work posted, 10 a.m. at the Art Museum and Art Department Office
- Thursday - Friday, Jan. 24-25, pick up unaccepted work at the Art Museum, 9 a.m.-noon, 1-4 p.m.
- Friday, Feb. 1, opening reception, 6-8 p.m. and awards ceremony at 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 2, 33rd Annual Juried Student Exhibition opens
- Saturday, March 1 33rd Annual Juried Student Exhibition closes
- Monday-Tuesday, March 3-4, pick up exhibited works at the Art Museum galleries, 9 a.m.-noon, 1-4 p.m. Arrangements for returning work can be made on a case-by-case basis.
Eligibility: Any undergraduate and graduate student enrolled at the University of Wyoming during the 2008 academic year.
Media: Original artwork including paintings, drawings, prints, photography, sculpture, graphic design, ceramics, and mixed media may be submitted. Two-dimensional works must be ready to hang (matted and framed under glass or plexiglass). Three-dimensional works must be stable. Bases will be provided by the UW Art Museum.
Procedure: A maximum of three (3) works per student may be submitted. Submitted works should have one (1) Identification Tag affixed to the back of each work in addition to a completed entry form.
FMI: Contact EK Kim, Collections Manager at 766-6634.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Karen Cotton selected as NEA theater fellow
Cheyenne journalist and children’s book author Karen Cotton has been chosen as a 2008 Institute Fellow in Theater and Musical Theater by the National Endowment for the Arts. She will attend the NEA-sponsored institute Feb. 5-15 at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. While there, she will hone her reviewing skills by attending a number of live performances and working with professional theater critics.
Here’s what the NEA had to say about Karen’s application:
Karen is a features and entertainment reporter from the Wyoming Tribune-Eagle in Cheyenne. In 2004, she received an Individual Artist Professional Development grant from the Wyoming Arts Council. She grew up in Green River and is a graduate of Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs and the University of Wyoming in Laramie.
Here’s what the NEA had to say about Karen’s application:
"Thank you for applying and giving us the pleasure of reading your materials and meeting you on paper. Your writing demonstrated passion, conceptual depth, integrity and imagination - and, above all, an eagerness to learn more and stretch your approach to theater with brave and conscientious zeal.
"There were nearly 50 applicants from 28 states who work in arts journalism at daily newspapers, alternative weeklies, magazines, online, television and radio stations outside the country's largest media markets. The competition was stiff. You should be very proud."
Karen is a features and entertainment reporter from the Wyoming Tribune-Eagle in Cheyenne. In 2004, she received an Individual Artist Professional Development grant from the Wyoming Arts Council. She grew up in Green River and is a graduate of Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs and the University of Wyoming in Laramie.
"Psalm" by Stuart Kestenbaum
Deer Brook Editions published Stuart Kestenbaum's third book of poems, Prayers & Run-on Sentences, in June. Former U.S. Poet Laureate Ted Kooser writes that, "Stuart Kestenbaum writes the kind of poems I love to read, heartfelt responses to the privilege of having been given a life. No hidden agendas, here, no theories to espouse, nothing but life, pure life, set down with craft and love." Garrison Keillor selected this poem for inclusion on the Writer's Almanac on NPR.
Psalm
The only psalm I had memorized was the 23rd
and now I find myself searching for the order
of the phrases knowing it ends with surely
goodness and mercy will follow me
all the days of my life and I will dwell
in the house of the Lord forever only I remember
seeing a new translation from the original Hebrew
and forever wasn't forever but a long time
which is different from forever although
even a long time today would be
good enough for me even a minute entering
the House would be good enough for me,
even a hand on the door or dropping today's
newspaper on the stoop or looking in the windows
that are reflecting this morning's clouds in first light.
Psalm
The only psalm I had memorized was the 23rd
and now I find myself searching for the order
of the phrases knowing it ends with surely
goodness and mercy will follow me
all the days of my life and I will dwell
in the house of the Lord forever only I remember
seeing a new translation from the original Hebrew
and forever wasn't forever but a long time
which is different from forever although
even a long time today would be
good enough for me even a minute entering
the House would be good enough for me,
even a hand on the door or dropping today's
newspaper on the stoop or looking in the windows
that are reflecting this morning's clouds in first light.
Call for proposals: BBHC
The Cody Institute for Western American Studies (CIWAS) at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody invites proposals for its Resident Fellowship program. Fellowships are intended to fund research and thereby promote scholarship on any aspect of the American West. Fellowships carry a stipend of $5,000 and a residency requirement of one to five months. The period of residency must be completed between June 1, 2008 and May 31, 2009. Up to five fellowships will be awarded for this period.
Fellows may pursue field research in the Cody area (i.e., the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem or the Big Horn Basin and Mountains) or work in the collections of the McCracken Research Library, or one of the five museums of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center: the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody firearms Museum, of the Draper Museum of Natural History.
Research and collection strengths at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center include, but are not limited to, Western American art and artists; William F. Cody and Buffalo Bill's Wild West; western exploration and settlement; the rise of American Western Culture; Plains Indian cultures; history of firearms technology and use; Western American literature and music; and distribution, movements, and ecology of Greater Yellowstone Area wildlife in relation to environmental change and human dimensions of wildlife conservation and management in the American West. In addition to more than 300 manuscript collections, the McCracken Research Library also has an extensive image and photo archive.
Proposals (no more than three single-spaced pages) should outline the parameters of the project, describe what the fellow hopes to accomplish during his or her residence, and explain how the collections at the BBHC or field research in the Cody area will contribute to the ultimate success of the project. A current c.v. should also be included with the proposal.
Resident Fellows are expected to give one public talk while in residence and as a direct result of the fellowship, to prepare either a professional presentation or publication. Manuscripts of interest to the Buffalo Bill Historical Center may be offered financial support for publication.
Please submit a c.v. and a proposal by March 16, 2008 to:
Resident Fellowship Program
Attn: Dr. Robert B. Pickering, Director
Cody Institute for Western American Studies
Buffalo Bill Historical Center
720 Sheridan Avenue
Cody, WY 82414-3428
Fellows may pursue field research in the Cody area (i.e., the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem or the Big Horn Basin and Mountains) or work in the collections of the McCracken Research Library, or one of the five museums of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center: the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody firearms Museum, of the Draper Museum of Natural History.
Research and collection strengths at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center include, but are not limited to, Western American art and artists; William F. Cody and Buffalo Bill's Wild West; western exploration and settlement; the rise of American Western Culture; Plains Indian cultures; history of firearms technology and use; Western American literature and music; and distribution, movements, and ecology of Greater Yellowstone Area wildlife in relation to environmental change and human dimensions of wildlife conservation and management in the American West. In addition to more than 300 manuscript collections, the McCracken Research Library also has an extensive image and photo archive.
Proposals (no more than three single-spaced pages) should outline the parameters of the project, describe what the fellow hopes to accomplish during his or her residence, and explain how the collections at the BBHC or field research in the Cody area will contribute to the ultimate success of the project. A current c.v. should also be included with the proposal.
Resident Fellows are expected to give one public talk while in residence and as a direct result of the fellowship, to prepare either a professional presentation or publication. Manuscripts of interest to the Buffalo Bill Historical Center may be offered financial support for publication.
Please submit a c.v. and a proposal by March 16, 2008 to:
Resident Fellowship Program
Attn: Dr. Robert B. Pickering, Director
Cody Institute for Western American Studies
Buffalo Bill Historical Center
720 Sheridan Avenue
Cody, WY 82414-3428
BBHC hosts "Fourth Friday" event
The Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody features its first "Fourth Friday" of 2008 on Jan. 25. Come out for a free evening of "tunes, enticing cocktails, munchies, and a gallery talk." Held in the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, 5-7 p.m.
The BBHC hosts "Fourth Friday" events in January, February, and the public is invited to enjoy one of its five museums. BBHC stafffers present a gallery talk in the featured museum, offering visitors a new or different perspective on the collections.
FMI: 307-587-4771
The BBHC hosts "Fourth Friday" events in January, February, and the public is invited to enjoy one of its five museums. BBHC stafffers present a gallery talk in the featured museum, offering visitors a new or different perspective on the collections.
FMI: 307-587-4771
Denver Mart open to arts entrepreneurs
This comes from the on-line newsletter Wyoming Entrepreneur.biz from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center:
Wyo companies encouraged to attend Denver Mart
Wyoming companies looking for new markets should apply to the Wyoming Business Council to attend the Denver Merchandise Mart's gift, jewelry and resort show Feb. 23-26. This show is considered the major market for souvenir and resort merchandise and includes one of the largest selections of Native American, rustic, lodge-style and western products in the country. Applications will be accepted through the end of December. Contact Annie Wood, 307-777-2844; annie.wood@wybusiness.org.
Wyo companies encouraged to attend Denver Mart
Wyoming companies looking for new markets should apply to the Wyoming Business Council to attend the Denver Merchandise Mart's gift, jewelry and resort show Feb. 23-26. This show is considered the major market for souvenir and resort merchandise and includes one of the largest selections of Native American, rustic, lodge-style and western products in the country. Applications will be accepted through the end of December. Contact Annie Wood, 307-777-2844; annie.wood@wybusiness.org.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
For all those non-profits out there
The Chronicle of Philanthropy bills itself as the newspaper of the nonprofit world. Access them on line at www.philanthropy.com for some interesting reading.
2009 Wyoming Game and Fish Conservation Stamp Art Competition
The 2009 competition subject will be the great-gray owl. Entries will be accepted from January 1 through March 1, 2008. The judging will be held March 14, 2008 and the winning artwork will be placed on the 2009 Conservation Stamp. The second through fifth place winners, along with the honorable mentions, will be featured on the Game and Fish website and offered for sale immediately following the competition through October 1, 2008. Please contact Al Langston at Al.Langston@wgf.state.wy.us or (307) 777-4540 with any questions regarding the competition.FMI go to http://gf.state.wy.us/. Put your cursor on publications and art, then click on Conservation Stamp contest.
USA Today calls Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy "Dazzling...A fantastical tale in an enchanted jungle."Jungle Fantasy is an all-new live theatrical adventure that takes audiences soaring into a magical forest through the air and on stage. An International cast of graceful aerialists, spine bending contortionists, vine swinging characters, strong men and balancers bring this jungle dream to life in a lush, Broadway setting filled with wildly unpredictable designs, special effects, inventive choreography, puppeteering and dazzling costumes. It's an exhilarating journey the entire family can experience together.
Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy plays The Buell Theatre for just five performances February 14-17, 2008.
Discounted rates are available for groups of 20 or more by phone at (303) 446-4829 or by e-mail at groupsales@dcpa.org Video preview available at www.myspace.com/cirquedreamsjunglefantasy
Write something at the Iowa Summer Writing Festival
From June 8 through July 25, 2008, the University of Iowa's twenty-second annual Summer Writing Festival is a short term, noncredit writing program for adults. The Festival offers 130 workshops across the genres, including novel, short fiction, poetry, essay, memoir, humor, travel, play writing, writing for children, and more. All levels.There are no requirements beyond the desire to write. Open to writers 21 and over.
Week-long workshops: $500-$525. Weekend workshops: $250. Housing is available in local hotels and B & B's.
For a complete catalog, contact: Iowa Summer Writing Festival, The University of Iowa, C215 Seashore Hall, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242-1402; phone (319) 335-4160; fax (319) 335-4743; email iswfestival@uiowa.edu. Go to http://www.uiowa.edu/, hold the cursor on Arts, then click on The Writing Program, and then on the Summer Writing Festival for much more information. The 2008 program catalog and webpage will be available in mid-February.
Ask about the Iowa Young Writers' Studio for high school students, or visit the webpage at www.uiowa.edu/youngwriters.
Big West Arts Festival
The Big West Arts Festival celebrates its third year as a large cultural event on the front lawn of the Sheridan College campus in Sheridan, Wyoming. Its site is nestled in the valley with the dramatic Big Horn Mountains to the west and the spacious, wide-open plains to the east. Sheridan lies midway between the Black Hills of South Dakota and Yellowstone National Park.Sheridan College is sponsoring and hosting the festival on its beautiful campus. Northwest Community College District (NWCCD) is one of the seven community colleges in Wyoming that includes Sheridan College and Gillette College. Sheridan College is known for its strong academics, arts, and variety of technical programs. For more information about Sheridan College, visit http://www.sheridan.edu/.
For two days, on August 2 and 3, 2008, the Big West Arts Festival at Sheridan College takes place. The campus becomes a metropolis of culinary, visual, and performing art. The event if free and open to the public.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, with live music until 11 p.m. Sunday, August 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with live music until 7 p.m.
There will be 50 visual artists' booths; 20 hours of free live music; a wide variety of food and beverages; a welding sculpture rodeo; the unveiling of the SC Outdoor Sculpture Competition; and it is Sheridan College's 60th anniversary kick off.
Artists, food vendors, musicians and volunteers can visit the web site at http://www.bigwestartsfestival.com/ for more information about becoming a part of the Big West Arts Festival.
FMI contact Rod Dugal or Danna Hildebrand at (307) 674-6446 or (800) 913-9139, ext. 3008.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Joseph Califano at Laramie County Library
The Mental Health and Substance Abuse services of The Wyoming Health Department presents the author of High Society: How Substance Abuse Ravages America and What to Do About It, Joseph A. Califano, Jr. speaking on his book at the Laramie County Library in the Cottonwood Room on Wednesday, January 9, 2008, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. A book signing will follow.Califano served as Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare from 1977-1979 during Jimmy Carter's presidency. He also served President Lyndon B. Johnson as a special assistant to the secretary and deputy secretary of defense and later as Johnson't top domestic aide.
Mr. Califano is chair and president of The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA), which he founded in 1992, at Columbia University.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Light blogging during Christmas holiday
Blogging will be sporadic, possibly non-existent, for the next four days as we close down our Cheyenne offices for Christmas Eve and Christmas. We'll see you back on the blog on Dec. 26.
Merry Christmas!
Mike Shay and Linda Coatney
Merry Christmas!
Mike Shay and Linda Coatney
Kudos for Bob Cherry's new novel
New West book section editor Jenny Shank penned a favorable review today of Bob Cherry's new novel, "Moving Serafina," just released by Texas Christian University Press in Fort Worth. Bob lives and writes in Cody.Here are the opening lines from Jenny's review:
"In his new novel, Moving Serafina, Wyoming writer Bob Cherry has woven the hot-button issues of illegal immigration and water rights in the West into his compelling plot without ever losing his focus on the simple human dramas at the heart of his story. Set in the West Texas town of Solitario on the Mexican border, Moving Serafina involves an entire community of characters who each have a unique and personal stake in these political questions."
To read entire review, go to http://www.newwest.net/city/article/good_grief_bob_cherrys_moving_serafina/C101/L101/
NEA NEW PLAY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
New Arts Endowment initiative will enhance the ability of the nation's nonprofit theaters to bring new work to full production.
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) today announced a new program, the NEA New Play Development Project (NPDP), to help the nation's nonprofit theaters bring more new plays to full production. The national program will be administered by DC-based Arena Stage's American Voices New Play Program. Selecting and providing support for exceptional new plays and new play development models will be a key component of the program. The NEA New Play Development Project will support the development of seven new plays at theaters from across the country. Two projects selected as NEA Outstanding New American Plays will receive up to $90,000 each to support advanced development, including at least one full production. Five projects selected as NEA Distinguished New Play Development Projects will receive up to $20,000 each to support the early stages of development for a new play with strong potential to merit a full production. In both cases, the selected plays will be developed in close collaboration with the playwrights.For the complete release, please visit: http://www.arts.gov/news/news07/newplay.html.
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) today announced a new program, the NEA New Play Development Project (NPDP), to help the nation's nonprofit theaters bring more new plays to full production. The national program will be administered by DC-based Arena Stage's American Voices New Play Program. Selecting and providing support for exceptional new plays and new play development models will be a key component of the program. The NEA New Play Development Project will support the development of seven new plays at theaters from across the country. Two projects selected as NEA Outstanding New American Plays will receive up to $90,000 each to support advanced development, including at least one full production. Five projects selected as NEA Distinguished New Play Development Projects will receive up to $20,000 each to support the early stages of development for a new play with strong potential to merit a full production. In both cases, the selected plays will be developed in close collaboration with the playwrights.For the complete release, please visit: http://www.arts.gov/news/news07/newplay.html.
Grand Teton Music Festival Presents...
Winter Chamber Music
Friday, January 11, 7:30 p.m. -- Strings and Piano, featuring festival musicians as the University of Utah Chamber Players -- Hasse Borup on violin; Roberta Zalkind on viola; Amy Leung on cello; Heather Connor on piano.
Friday, February 15, 7:30 p.m. -- Brass Quintet, featuring Festival Musicians from the Houston Symphony -- Mark Hughes on trumpet; Theresa Hanebury on trumpet; Nancy Goodearl on horn; Brad White on trombone; David Kirk on tuba.
Thursday, March 13, 7:30 p.m. -- Woodwind Quintet, featuring Festival Musicians from the Atlanta and Houston Symphonies -- Elizabeth Koch on oboe; John Thorne on flute; Laura Ardan on clarinet; Juan de Gomar on bassoon; Brice Andrus on horn.
Thursday, March 20, 7:30 p.m. -- Percussion featuring the Festival Orchestra's beloved percussions section -- Richard Brown, William Cahn, Brian Prechtl, Tom Sherwood, and Wiley Sykes.
Not only does the Grand Teton Music Festival bring its talented Festival Musicians to the stage at Walk Festival Hall, but these artists also play a vital role in the Festival's educational programming. Throughout the winter, the Festival brings its visiting musicains into local Jackson Hole classrooms to connect with students through in-school demonstrations, master classes, and mini-recitals.
FMI call (307) 733-1128 or go to http://www.gtmf.org/
Friday, January 11, 7:30 p.m. -- Strings and Piano, featuring festival musicians as the University of Utah Chamber Players -- Hasse Borup on violin; Roberta Zalkind on viola; Amy Leung on cello; Heather Connor on piano.
Friday, February 15, 7:30 p.m. -- Brass Quintet, featuring Festival Musicians from the Houston Symphony -- Mark Hughes on trumpet; Theresa Hanebury on trumpet; Nancy Goodearl on horn; Brad White on trombone; David Kirk on tuba.
Thursday, March 13, 7:30 p.m. -- Woodwind Quintet, featuring Festival Musicians from the Atlanta and Houston Symphonies -- Elizabeth Koch on oboe; John Thorne on flute; Laura Ardan on clarinet; Juan de Gomar on bassoon; Brice Andrus on horn.
Thursday, March 20, 7:30 p.m. -- Percussion featuring the Festival Orchestra's beloved percussions section -- Richard Brown, William Cahn, Brian Prechtl, Tom Sherwood, and Wiley Sykes.
Not only does the Grand Teton Music Festival bring its talented Festival Musicians to the stage at Walk Festival Hall, but these artists also play a vital role in the Festival's educational programming. Throughout the winter, the Festival brings its visiting musicains into local Jackson Hole classrooms to connect with students through in-school demonstrations, master classes, and mini-recitals.
FMI call (307) 733-1128 or go to http://www.gtmf.org/
The Eggstraordinary Eggxhibit
(
The egg at right was entered as the Wyoming offering in the White House state egg display for 2007. It was done by Illinois artist Phillip M. LeDonne)
The egg at right was entered as the Wyoming offering in the White House state egg display for 2007. It was done by Illinois artist Phillip M. LeDonne)The Wyoming decorated egg saga continues as the mailing for entries to the upcoming aforementioned exhibit has been mailed out. Interested artists can apply in one of three categories: White House Eggs, egg-themed 3-D art, and 2-D egg-themed art. Each category has guidelines to meet.
The postmark deadline for the required entry components is January 18, 2008.
Notification of jury results (for 2-D and 3-D egg-themed art only) is February 1, 2008
Artwork is due to the Wyoming Arts Council February 21, 2008
Exhibit dates are March 3-May 9, 2008
Reception will be announced
FMI about entry requirements, go to the WAC website at http://www.wyoarts.state.wy.us/ or call us at (307) 777-7742.
FMI about the White House egg display go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/easter/2007/eggsbystate
Merry Christmas!!
The postmark deadline for the required entry components is January 18, 2008.
Notification of jury results (for 2-D and 3-D egg-themed art only) is February 1, 2008
Artwork is due to the Wyoming Arts Council February 21, 2008
Exhibit dates are March 3-May 9, 2008
Reception will be announced
FMI about entry requirements, go to the WAC website at http://www.wyoarts.state.wy.us/ or call us at (307) 777-7742.
FMI about the White House egg display go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/easter/2007/eggsbystate
Merry Christmas!!
CWC Library receives grant for Jordan visit
Our librarian pals at the Central Wyoming College Library in Riverton report on their blog that they've "recently received notice that the Wyoming Humanities Council approved our grant application to fund Teresa Jordan's visit in April. Jordan is the author of the Western classic, Riding the White Horse Home about her experience growing up on a ranch near Iron Mountain in Laramie County and the later sale of the ranch. She has written about a wide variety of Western issues, in particular the role of women in the settlement of the region. Four communities are participating in the grant project. Jordan will speak at Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs on April 9 as part of their 'Speakers of the West' series, here at CWC on April 10 and in Cody and Powell on April 11. For more information about Jordan, visit her webpage at teresajordan.com."
Go to the library's blog at http://cwclib.blogspot.com.
Go to the library's blog at http://cwclib.blogspot.com.
More poetry
From Ted Kooser:
There's that old business about the tree falling in the middle of the forest with no one to hear it: does it make a noise? Here Linda Gregg, of New York, offers us a look at an elegant beauty that can be presumed to exist and persist without an observer.
Elegance
All that is uncared for.
Left alone in the stillness
in that pure silence married
to the stillness of nature.
A door off its hinges,
shade and shadows in an empty room.
Leaks for light. Raw where
the tin roof rusted through.
The rustle of weeds in their
different kinds of air in the mornings,
year after year.
A pecan tree, and the house
made out of mud bricks. Accurate
and unexpected beauty, rattling
and singing. If not to the sun,
then to nothing and to no one.
There's that old business about the tree falling in the middle of the forest with no one to hear it: does it make a noise? Here Linda Gregg, of New York, offers us a look at an elegant beauty that can be presumed to exist and persist without an observer.
Elegance
All that is uncared for.
Left alone in the stillness
in that pure silence married
to the stillness of nature.
A door off its hinges,
shade and shadows in an empty room.
Leaks for light. Raw where
the tin roof rusted through.
The rustle of weeds in their
different kinds of air in the mornings,
year after year.
A pecan tree, and the house
made out of mud bricks. Accurate
and unexpected beauty, rattling
and singing. If not to the sun,
then to nothing and to no one.
AFF Snow Night features new snowboard flick
The Alpinist Film Festival has announced that it will present "Let It Ride: The Craig Kelly Story" on Jan. 17, 2008, at the Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village.
An AFF press release describes the film as "an acclaimed celebration of the life and snowboarding of legendary rider Craig Kelly.... While Jake Burton created the origins of snowboarding, the pursuit as an industry, a profession and a lifestyle owes Craig Kelly a profound debt. The director of Let It Ride, Jaques Russo, met Kelly in the late 1980s, when snowboarding was still in its infancy and Kelly was just beginning to ride. Kelly soon began to make an impact on the sport, amassing more than seven World Snowboard Championship titles. Million-dollar contracts and the X-games soon followed, but Kelly eventually dropped out, quitting the competitions to search the world’s mountains for big new lines. Russo maintained his contacts with the athlete, and spent over a decade filming him in such disparate places as India, Iran, Greenland, South America and Japan."
On January 20, 2003, an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., Canada, took Kelly’s life, as well as the lives of six others. After Kelly’s death, Russo compiled his footage from the preceding years—as well as footage from other filmmakers concerned with telling the story -- and culled the rest to create a film that is both a documentary on the history of the sport, and the story of one of its most influential participants.
A rough cut of "Let it Ride" won "Best Film" at both the Whistler and the X-Dance film festivals (it also won best soundtrack at the latter). The Alpinist Film Festival screening will be the first of the finished film.
The 2008 Alpinist Film Festival will feature its Snow, Surf and Stone nights January 17-19 at Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village. A fourth evening, The People's Choice Ceremonies, will present the People's Choice award-winning films from the previous three evenings at the Center for the Arts in downtown Jackson. As an official entry into the AFF, "Let It Ride" will be in contention for the People's Choice Awards. Winners of the individual evenings receive a gift certificate from Patagonia worth $750. The grand-prize winner receives an additional gift certificate worth $1,500.
Tickets for The 2008 Alpinist Film Festival are $18 for the Snow, Surf and Stone nights and $20 for the People's Choice Ceremonies. Tickets and additional information can be found online at http://www.alpinist.com/film_festival.
The festival's mission is "to advance the art of cinematographic storytelling as it underscores the unity among the adventure lifestyle communities. A portion of every year's proceeds are donated to charities that help preserve the places of our inspiration. Because one of these places is our planet, beginning in 2008, the festival will purchase carbon offsets to counteract its
carbon footprint."
carbon footprint."
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Call for entries: the Niche Prize
The Royal Institution of Great Britain sent out this call for entries:
The Royal Institution is delighted to be working on a new partnership with the journal Nature on an unprecedented competition bringing together science and art. Initially inspired by the words of a former Director of the Ri, Lawrence Bragg, who said 'never talk about science, show it to them!' the Niche Prize will give entrants the chance to stretch their imaginations to the full in devising an arresting and inspiring installation.
In spring 2008, the Ri will reopen its doors following a £20 million refurbishment and this prize will provide the winners with the opportunity to fill a niche - both literally and metaphorically - for one year in this unique and iconic building. The prize will also provide the winners with a fabulous opportunity to identify with the global agenda and the democratization of science which the Ri is famous for.
Judges of the prize will include Susan Greenfield, Director of the Royal Institution, Philip Campbell, Editor-in-Chief of Nature and Lady Ritblat. Needless to say, the award provides a unique opportunity for the winners to become an integral part of a key moment in the Royal Institution's 208-year history of celebrating science.
Open to artists of any nationality.
Application deadline is Feb. 22, 2008
Find guidelines and an application form at http://www.rigb.org/events/awards.jsp
The Royal Institution is delighted to be working on a new partnership with the journal Nature on an unprecedented competition bringing together science and art. Initially inspired by the words of a former Director of the Ri, Lawrence Bragg, who said 'never talk about science, show it to them!' the Niche Prize will give entrants the chance to stretch their imaginations to the full in devising an arresting and inspiring installation.
In spring 2008, the Ri will reopen its doors following a £20 million refurbishment and this prize will provide the winners with the opportunity to fill a niche - both literally and metaphorically - for one year in this unique and iconic building. The prize will also provide the winners with a fabulous opportunity to identify with the global agenda and the democratization of science which the Ri is famous for.
Judges of the prize will include Susan Greenfield, Director of the Royal Institution, Philip Campbell, Editor-in-Chief of Nature and Lady Ritblat. Needless to say, the award provides a unique opportunity for the winners to become an integral part of a key moment in the Royal Institution's 208-year history of celebrating science.
Open to artists of any nationality.
Application deadline is Feb. 22, 2008
Find guidelines and an application form at http://www.rigb.org/events/awards.jsp
Saddle maker and leather worker Verlane Desgrange passes Dec. 2
Cody resident, renowned saddle maker and leather worker Verlane Desgrange passed away December 2.
She came to Wyoming when she was just 24 years old to attend saddle making school. There she met and apprenticed with saddle maker Cliff Ketchum of Ralston. Working with him for a year, seven days a week, she eventually moved to Cody and opened the South Fork Saddle Shop, building saddles, making bridles, chaps, purses and all manner of tack for local residents and clients throughout the country.
She won many awards. In 2007 she won 1st place in the International Leathercraft Guild's Leather Carving Contest. In 2006, she was awarded the prestigious Al Stohlman Award for Lifetime Achievement in Leather Craft, when she also received additional recognition from Senator Mike Enzi and the Wyoming Arts Council. WAC also nominated her this past spring for the Ford Foundation's USA Artists Award. From 2002-2004, she taught at Spokane Falls Community College where she resurrected the last formal (degreed) school of saddle making in the country.
In 1998, she received local recognition as Best Artist in Leather at the Western Design Conference for her creative interpretation of a 1918 lady's astride saddle which toured the state for the third Wyoming Biennial. Her passion was studying historical saddles and leather work and creating fresh interpretations of these designs. She was also one of ten horse-related crafters in the WAC's The Well Dressed Horse exhibit in 1992
Verlane was a backbone of the Cody equestrian community, donating her time and expertise to the Heart Mountain Dressage Club, of which she was a founding member, and to Pony and 4-H clubs. At the time of her death, she was working with 4-H groups in Spokane to develop leather working programs for middle and high school students.
She came to Wyoming when she was just 24 years old to attend saddle making school. There she met and apprenticed with saddle maker Cliff Ketchum of Ralston. Working with him for a year, seven days a week, she eventually moved to Cody and opened the South Fork Saddle Shop, building saddles, making bridles, chaps, purses and all manner of tack for local residents and clients throughout the country.
She won many awards. In 2007 she won 1st place in the International Leathercraft Guild's Leather Carving Contest. In 2006, she was awarded the prestigious Al Stohlman Award for Lifetime Achievement in Leather Craft, when she also received additional recognition from Senator Mike Enzi and the Wyoming Arts Council. WAC also nominated her this past spring for the Ford Foundation's USA Artists Award. From 2002-2004, she taught at Spokane Falls Community College where she resurrected the last formal (degreed) school of saddle making in the country.
In 1998, she received local recognition as Best Artist in Leather at the Western Design Conference for her creative interpretation of a 1918 lady's astride saddle which toured the state for the third Wyoming Biennial. Her passion was studying historical saddles and leather work and creating fresh interpretations of these designs. She was also one of ten horse-related crafters in the WAC's The Well Dressed Horse exhibit in 1992
Verlane was a backbone of the Cody equestrian community, donating her time and expertise to the Heart Mountain Dressage Club, of which she was a founding member, and to Pony and 4-H clubs. At the time of her death, she was working with 4-H groups in Spokane to develop leather working programs for middle and high school students.
Remember Maria Callas
From Ted Kooser:
Here is Arizona poet Steve Orlen's lovely tribute to the great opera singer, Maria Callas. Most of us never saw her perform, or even knew what she looked like, but many of us listened to her on the radio or on our parents' record players, perhaps in a parlor like the one in this poem.
In the House of the Voice of Maria Callas
In the house of the voice of Maria Callas
We hear the baby's cries, and the after-supper
Rattle of silverware, and three clocks ticking
To different tunes, and ripe plums
Sleeping in their chipped bowl, and traffic sounds
Dissecting the avenues outside. We hear, like water
Pouring over time itself, the pure distillate arias
Of the numerous pampered queens who have reigned,
And the working girls who have suffered
The envious knives, and the breathless brides
With their horned helmets who have fallen in love
And gone crazy or fallen in love and died
On the grand stage at their appointed moments--
Who will sing of them now? Maria Callas is dead,
Although the full lips and the slanting eyes
And flared nostrils of her voice resurrect
Dramas we are able to imagine in this parlor
On evenings like this one, adding some color,
Adding some order. Of whom it was said:
She could imagine almost anything and give voice to it.
Here is Arizona poet Steve Orlen's lovely tribute to the great opera singer, Maria Callas. Most of us never saw her perform, or even knew what she looked like, but many of us listened to her on the radio or on our parents' record players, perhaps in a parlor like the one in this poem.
In the House of the Voice of Maria Callas
In the house of the voice of Maria Callas
We hear the baby's cries, and the after-supper
Rattle of silverware, and three clocks ticking
To different tunes, and ripe plums
Sleeping in their chipped bowl, and traffic sounds
Dissecting the avenues outside. We hear, like water
Pouring over time itself, the pure distillate arias
Of the numerous pampered queens who have reigned,
And the working girls who have suffered
The envious knives, and the breathless brides
With their horned helmets who have fallen in love
And gone crazy or fallen in love and died
On the grand stage at their appointed moments--
Who will sing of them now? Maria Callas is dead,
Although the full lips and the slanting eyes
And flared nostrils of her voice resurrect
Dramas we are able to imagine in this parlor
On evenings like this one, adding some color,
Adding some order. Of whom it was said:
She could imagine almost anything and give voice to it.
Blue Sky Project teams artists & teens
Blue Sky Project invites professional artists and McHenry County, Ill., teens to create new works of contemporary art. This eight-week Artist in Residence Program during summer 2008 hosts artists who have a demonstrated commitment to innovation and exploration and are interested in collaborating with fellow artists and young people as a means of creating new works. In support of artistic experimentation and collaboration, we organize small groups of local teens eager to work with a professional artist, provide fees and materials to artists, and employ our facilities and staff to address the creative needs of our Blue Sky Project teams.
Postmark deadline for artists is Feb. 4, 2008.
FMI: http://www.blueskyart.org/.
Postmark deadline for artists is Feb. 4, 2008.
FMI: http://www.blueskyart.org/.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Call for Entries: Jackson
The Art Association of Jackson Hole will hold Labor of Love from February 15 to March 20, 2008. It's back by popular demand and open to everyone. Dust off your tools, your palettes, bruches, paints, hammers and chisels. Start building art today. Labor of Love is an open invitation to artists who work other jobs in order to live in Teton County, yet they still find time to create art. Any medium welcome, any size welcome, as long as it fits through the door.
Members Only Exhibition 2008 is held March 28-May 1, 2008. This year will be held in the Artspace Gallery. Not a member? Join today by calling (307) 733-6379 or visit http://www.artaxxociation.org/.
Entry deadline for Labor of Love is February 1; for Members Only Exhibition, March 14.
Members Only Exhibition 2008 is held March 28-May 1, 2008. This year will be held in the Artspace Gallery. Not a member? Join today by calling (307) 733-6379 or visit http://www.artaxxociation.org/.
Entry deadline for Labor of Love is February 1; for Members Only Exhibition, March 14.
Artist Edie Reno debuts MySpace site
Gillette artist Edie Reno, visual arts fellowship honorable mention last year, has a new MySpace page. Go to http://www.myspace.com/ediereno. Edie's work was featured in an exhibit at the Wyoming Arts Council Gallery during the spring and summer of 2007. She is shown above (at right) in the gallery with WAC Manager Rita Basom.
"No slouch of a newsletter"
So my daughter said when she looked at this second issue.
The Wyoming Art Council's Artscapes November newsletter issue is off the presses and being mailed as I write this. Begins with a great review by Mike Shay about the Arts Summit that took place in Casper in October, including Casper College's Literary Conference and assorted activities at the Nic and the Wyoming Arts Alliance Block-Booking Conference that featured Casper 's own Tremors, husband and wife duo Laughing Bird, who call Story home but travel the world, and Dayton's Dave Munsick, who performed solo, but whose sons and their instruments occasionally travel and sing on the road with him.
This issue also includes a profile of the arts in the small, but talented community of Cokeville. They held a year of art activities culminating in the very successful Minerva Teichert plein air art show and sale. Teichert is a fairly well-renowned early 20th century artist who lived and worked in Cokeville. A fine piece of her work is on the front cover.
Rita Basom, WAC manager used this issue to look back over the year and the amazing depth and breadth of what the WAC does. Another page features an advocacy column by the current board chair, Bruce Richardson, and a short history of the board. We spotlighted three artists: Ed Fowler, the bladesmith from Riverton; Martin (Mar-teen) Goicoechea (Guoy-ca-chay-a), the bertsolari from Rock Springs who has been honored with a National Heritage Fellowship Award; and Alyson Hagy, an English professor at UW, who has numerous publications, her most recent, Snow, Ashes. We also introduced a new WAC roster artist, Trio Dolce, from Evanston.
Sadly, Don King passed away this year, and we have an article about his life and work. Tim Evans, former folk arts director at the WAC, wrote Remembering the king of the western saddle. This issue seemed to revolve around folk arts. We also featured a story about the "Wyoming Folk Masters" exhibit going on in the WAC Gallery through February 22, 2008. Some wonderful folk artists and their craft are represented.
Our blog page lists several items, along with a photo of the WAC Literary Fellowship winners John Nesbitt and John Sutton, and judge Nick Flynn.
You can also read about the upcoming egg exhibit, VSA Wyoming, and get tips on how to fill out grant forms.
Please call us at the WAC to get on the mailing list -- (307) 777-7742 or go to the our website at http://wyoarts.state.wy.us/ for more information.
The Wyoming Art Council's Artscapes November newsletter issue is off the presses and being mailed as I write this. Begins with a great review by Mike Shay about the Arts Summit that took place in Casper in October, including Casper College's Literary Conference and assorted activities at the Nic and the Wyoming Arts Alliance Block-Booking Conference that featured Casper 's own Tremors, husband and wife duo Laughing Bird, who call Story home but travel the world, and Dayton's Dave Munsick, who performed solo, but whose sons and their instruments occasionally travel and sing on the road with him.
This issue also includes a profile of the arts in the small, but talented community of Cokeville. They held a year of art activities culminating in the very successful Minerva Teichert plein air art show and sale. Teichert is a fairly well-renowned early 20th century artist who lived and worked in Cokeville. A fine piece of her work is on the front cover.
Rita Basom, WAC manager used this issue to look back over the year and the amazing depth and breadth of what the WAC does. Another page features an advocacy column by the current board chair, Bruce Richardson, and a short history of the board. We spotlighted three artists: Ed Fowler, the bladesmith from Riverton; Martin (Mar-teen) Goicoechea (Guoy-ca-chay-a), the bertsolari from Rock Springs who has been honored with a National Heritage Fellowship Award; and Alyson Hagy, an English professor at UW, who has numerous publications, her most recent, Snow, Ashes. We also introduced a new WAC roster artist, Trio Dolce, from Evanston.
Sadly, Don King passed away this year, and we have an article about his life and work. Tim Evans, former folk arts director at the WAC, wrote Remembering the king of the western saddle. This issue seemed to revolve around folk arts. We also featured a story about the "Wyoming Folk Masters" exhibit going on in the WAC Gallery through February 22, 2008. Some wonderful folk artists and their craft are represented.
Our blog page lists several items, along with a photo of the WAC Literary Fellowship winners John Nesbitt and John Sutton, and judge Nick Flynn.
You can also read about the upcoming egg exhibit, VSA Wyoming, and get tips on how to fill out grant forms.
Please call us at the WAC to get on the mailing list -- (307) 777-7742 or go to the our website at http://wyoarts.state.wy.us/ for more information.
"Take a Seat" at Margo's Pottery in Buffalo
Celia Ann Bolinger and Dollie Iberlin return to Margo's Pottery and Fine Crafts in downtown Buffalo through Dec. 31 with "Take a Seat," a show that features the recycled re-upholstered furniture that the duo are known for. Also featured will be three of Dollie's hand-painted chairs.
December hours at Margo's: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m.
FMI: 307-684-9406.
December hours at Margo's: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m.
FMI: 307-684-9406.
HarperTeen sponsors writing contest
For teen writers only:
Submit your original writing (a short story, poem, or song) between now and Monday, January 7, 2008 and you will be entered for a chance to win $5,000. A panel of HarperTeen judges will select the 10 most original and creative pieces. But it will be up to on-line readers to decide who wins. Check back after the deadline to cast a vote.
HarperTeen suggests that writers “keep it clean, short, and your own.”
For writing tips and advice from authors and editors, go to http://www.myspace.com/harperteen.
Submit your original writing (a short story, poem, or song) between now and Monday, January 7, 2008 and you will be entered for a chance to win $5,000. A panel of HarperTeen judges will select the 10 most original and creative pieces. But it will be up to on-line readers to decide who wins. Check back after the deadline to cast a vote.
HarperTeen suggests that writers “keep it clean, short, and your own.”
For writing tips and advice from authors and editors, go to http://www.myspace.com/harperteen.
AutomaticBoy returns to Wyoming
This press release comes from alt-rock musician and Riverton native Kenny Fleetwood:As proven by what seems like a million bands before, planning and executing a winter concert tour in the northwestern U.S. can be quite a challenge. This winter, three northwestern-based alt-rock groups plan to tackle that challenge one isolated snow-storm at a time.
Having just returned home from their first national headlining tour, Spokane, Washington, natives Paper Mache prepare to tackle even more U.S. cities only weeks after wrapping up work on their second studio album, "Easier to Lose." This time around; however; they'll be treating Wyoming to three fun-filled nights of music and stories in the best way they know how: live and in concert.
Joining Paper Mache on their northwestern winter escapade will be Missoula, Montana, rockers AutomaticBoy and Indianapolis natives Eyes Like Aster. With two band members who are Riverton natives; AutomaticBoy is proud and happy to be playing for their home-crowd again. The tour kicks off Feb. 5 in Helena, Mont., and will wrap up in Spokane on Feb. 13 with stops in Casper (Feb. 9), Laramie (Feb. 10) and Riverton (Feb. 11). Ticket info and pricing is available on www.MySpace.com/PaperMacheMusic or www.MySpace.com/AutomaticBoyMusic
Laramie gets new classical and jazz stations
From a UW press release:
New radio stations offering classical and jazz music can now be heard in Laramie 24 hours daily.
The Wyoming Public Radio (WPR) Network recently launched Classical Laramie KUWY 88.5 FM and Jazz Laramie KUWL 90.1 FM. Both stations feature Laramie weather forecasts and Wyoming Public Radio news, says Roger Adams, Wyoming Public Radio program director.
He says KUWY offers the same classical selection heard until recently on KVOD's Laramie translator.
"KUWY offers the greatest classical compositions, in their finest recorded performances, introduced by knowledgeable announcers," Adams says. "It also offers insightful commentary, special shows and features about the music and musicians."
KUWL showcases the finest performances of jazz, plus BBC World Service news updates at the top of each hour.
"The lineup features music by both renowned masters and exciting new artists, including Clifford Brown, Billie Holiday, John Coltrane and many more," Adams says.
Classical Laramie and Jazz Laramie are a service of the University of Wyoming and the Wyoming Public Radio Network, which also operate the statewide Wyoming Public Radio (WPR), the Classical Channel HD on KUWY-FM in Laramie and Cheyenne, KUWC-FM in Casper and KUWJ-FM in Jackson, as well as associated web sites, podcasts, and streaming Internet audio.
New radio stations offering classical and jazz music can now be heard in Laramie 24 hours daily.
The Wyoming Public Radio (WPR) Network recently launched Classical Laramie KUWY 88.5 FM and Jazz Laramie KUWL 90.1 FM. Both stations feature Laramie weather forecasts and Wyoming Public Radio news, says Roger Adams, Wyoming Public Radio program director.
He says KUWY offers the same classical selection heard until recently on KVOD's Laramie translator.
"KUWY offers the greatest classical compositions, in their finest recorded performances, introduced by knowledgeable announcers," Adams says. "It also offers insightful commentary, special shows and features about the music and musicians."
KUWL showcases the finest performances of jazz, plus BBC World Service news updates at the top of each hour.
"The lineup features music by both renowned masters and exciting new artists, including Clifford Brown, Billie Holiday, John Coltrane and many more," Adams says.
Classical Laramie and Jazz Laramie are a service of the University of Wyoming and the Wyoming Public Radio Network, which also operate the statewide Wyoming Public Radio (WPR), the Classical Channel HD on KUWY-FM in Laramie and Cheyenne, KUWC-FM in Casper and KUWJ-FM in Jackson, as well as associated web sites, podcasts, and streaming Internet audio.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Start the new year with a pottery class
"Beginning Pottery: Session I" will he held Jan. 15-30, 6:30-9 p.m., at the AVA Community Art Center in Gillette. It will be conducted by local artist John Werbelow. He will teach you how to make pots using the potters' wheel; how to handbuild using slab, coil, and pinch methods, and how to use the extruder.
Session Fee is $90 (AVA Members $80). Includes all clay and firing. Does not include glazes. Member discounts are not available online. If you would like to receive your member discount, please call AVA before your register online.
FMI: 307-682-9133
Session Fee is $90 (AVA Members $80). Includes all clay and firing. Does not include glazes. Member discounts are not available online. If you would like to receive your member discount, please call AVA before your register online.
FMI: 307-682-9133
Monday, December 17, 2007
AIE grant guidelines are changing
Here's an important announcement from the Wyoming Arts Council:
The Wyoming Arts Council is changing the Arts in Education grant program. The annual program will become a biennial application, due March 1, 2008, that allows grantees to request funding for two years. Starting July 1, 2008, there will also be an ongoing grant for programs not eligible for the biennial track.
Applicants will apply in only one of the categories described below. This change will provide greater access to arts education funding for more organizations and schools and help WAC accomplish the arts education goals in its long-range plan.
The Biennial AIE Grant provides grantees that demonstrate consistent arts education programming with-two year funding. This will stabilize organizations and allow staff to focus on planning and evaluation. Organizations who apply in this track must have successfully completed at least five WAC grants, including at least two AIE grants, and apply for multiple or year-long projects.
Successful applicants can plan on grant funding for two years, although amounts may vary. Rather than an outline for a future project, applicants will tell the story of activities and accomplishments from the past year, the results of their evaluation and planning for future activities.
The Ongoing AIE Grant, available for projects starting July 1, 2008, will serve grantees that are new to WAC or single projects. Applications will be accepted all year.
A mailing with more information was done in early December to all current and previous grantees. Applications will be accepted on-line only, unless special arrangements are made. For more information, see our web site or call 307-777-7742.
"Wyoming Signatures" features author interview
The semi-monthly University of Wyoming television series, "Wyoming Signatures," will feature segments on clean air initiatives and a popular Wyoming author. The public affairs program will air on KCWC, Wyoming Public Television, at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 23.
Critically acclaimed Wyoming mystery author C.J. Box is a special guest on this week's show. Known for his "Joe Pickett" series, his latest book "Free Fire," which takes place in the wilds of Yellowstone National Park, will be released in May 2008. Box is a recipient of a Wyoming Arts Council creative writing fellowship.
Bart Geerts, associate professor in the UW Department of Atmospheric Science, will discuss the "Cool Cities" initiative, in which individuals work at the local level to take action against the threat of climate change caused by carbon dioxide emissions.
Also on the program is a segment about 14,000 pounds of dinosaur fossils and rocks that are being cleaned, sorted and identified at the UW Geological Museum.
"Wyoming Signatures" is produced by UW Television. KCWC can be seen off-air or via cable in communities throughout Wyoming, including Casper, Cheyenne, Laramie, Riverton, Lander, Rock Springs, Green River, Powell, Cody, Sheridan, Gillette, Jackson, Pinedale and Big Piney. Check local listings for specific channel information.
Critically acclaimed Wyoming mystery author C.J. Box is a special guest on this week's show. Known for his "Joe Pickett" series, his latest book "Free Fire," which takes place in the wilds of Yellowstone National Park, will be released in May 2008. Box is a recipient of a Wyoming Arts Council creative writing fellowship.
Bart Geerts, associate professor in the UW Department of Atmospheric Science, will discuss the "Cool Cities" initiative, in which individuals work at the local level to take action against the threat of climate change caused by carbon dioxide emissions.
Also on the program is a segment about 14,000 pounds of dinosaur fossils and rocks that are being cleaned, sorted and identified at the UW Geological Museum.
"Wyoming Signatures" is produced by UW Television. KCWC can be seen off-air or via cable in communities throughout Wyoming, including Casper, Cheyenne, Laramie, Riverton, Lander, Rock Springs, Green River, Powell, Cody, Sheridan, Gillette, Jackson, Pinedale and Big Piney. Check local listings for specific channel information.
Andy Warhol Foundation announces gift
On October 16, 2007, the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts announced the 20th Anniversary Photographic Legacy Program. What this means is that 183 college and university art museums across the U.S. will receive part of 28,543 original Warhol photographs that are valued in excess of $28 million.According to foundation president Joel Wachs, the aim of the Photographic Legacy Program is to provide greater access to Warhol's artwork and process, and to enable a wide range of people from communities across the country to view and study this important yet relatively unknown body of Warhol's work. The program offers institutions that do not have the means to acquire works by Warhol the opportunity to bring a significant number of photographs into their permanent collections, while allowing those institutions that do not have Warhol in their collections to enrich the breadth and depth of their holdings.
Each of the participating institutions will receive approximately 150 original Polaroid photographs and gelatin silver prints. "Warhol often shot a person or event with both cameras, cropping one in Polaroid color that Warhol termed "photograph" and snapping the other in black and white as a "picture." The Photographic Legacy Program presents both kinds of images side by side, allowing viewers to move back and forth between moments of Warhol's "art," "work," and "life," inseparable parts of a fascinating whole," says Jenny Moore, curator of the program. "The true idiosyncrasies of his subjects were revealed through this process."
"Oystergrass" prepares for 2008 festival
We just received a promotional CD from the Oyster Ridge Music Festival in Kemmerer. It's a nifty five-minute overview of the festival and its many performers, including L'Angelus, Victor Barnes Insurgent Bluegrass, Trampled by Turtles, Lander, Crooked Kill, and Menage. As long-time performer Robin Kessinger says on the CD, festival attendance increases every year, with barely 75 people coming out the first year but now big crowds people Triangle Park every summer. "This festival is here to stay," he says. Oyster Ridge traces its origins to 1993 and, in 2005, it was a recipient of a Wyoming Governor's Arts Award.
The festival's 2008 dates are July 25-27.
See the video and find out more at http://www.oysterridgemusicfestival.com/.
The festival's 2008 dates are July 25-27.
See the video and find out more at http://www.oysterridgemusicfestival.com/.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Noted Wyoming sculptor dies in L.A.
On Saturday, the Casper Star-Tribune announced the death of Robert Russin, the renowned Wyoming sculptor and creator of the large bust of Abraham Lincoln located at the summit of I-80 between Laramie and Cheyenne. He died Thursday in Los Angeles.
Russin, 93, was an art professor at the University of Wyoming for almost four decades, beginning in 1947, and produced numerous pieces which are on display throughout Wyoming and the world.
Russin's Lincoln bust has been called "the largest such depiction of the nation's 16th president ever done." It was placed on the highest point of old U.S. Highway 30 in 1959 and was moved to its present location when I-80 was built. Russin also sculpted three pieces on display in Casper: the "Prometheus" at the county library, "Energy Man" at the Chamber of Commerce and "Fountainhead" at City Hall.
Another "Energy Man" piece is on display at the Department of Energy in Washington, D.C. A work called "Wyoming Crystal" is housed in the State Capitol in Cheyenne. Just recently, two bas reliefs he carved for the entrance of the old law school building on the UW campus were removed before the building's demolition. They will be placed inside an addition planned for the current law school on the east end of campus. He also did the "Wyoming Family" piece which graces the center of Prexy's Pasture and the Benjamin Franklin statute nearby.
Susan Moldenhauer, director of the UW Art Museum, said Russin was known "as a prolific artist and a dedicated professor." She said he did much figurative work, mostly in bronze, while his works in marble and other stone materials "were more abstract." Moldenhauer said she was at an international art fair in Miami just last Sunday when she mentioned to an elderly woman sitting next to her that she was from Wyoming. The woman asked whether Susan knew of a man named Robert Russin, a teacher of hers at Cooper Union in the '40s. "She was remembering him very fondly and said how sad the students were when he left for Wyoming," Moldenhauer said.
During his long career at UW, Russin was granted a Ford Foundation Fellowship to work in Italy, and he returned there frequently to work on projects. When one of his children was born at the old Ivinson Hospital in Laramie, Russin was inspired to make a sculpture called "Fulfillment," depicting mother and child. He held onto that work until 2006, when he donated it to the present Ivinson Memorial Hospital on 30th Street.
Russin's works are also in the collection of the U.S. Navy at Abbott Laboratories, the Hyde Park Museum and his alma mater in New York.
Jack Rosenthal of Casper told the Casper Star-Tribune that Russin "had great depth to him, beyond his art. I'd sit and talk to him while he was chipping away on a piece. He had strong feelings about the world and about people, a great sense of values. He knew what was truly important."
Rosenthal said Russin's last request to him was that his ashes be buried up on Sherman Hill near his favorite work, the Lincoln bust.
For full obituary, go to http://www.trib.com/news/wyoming/.
Russin, 93, was an art professor at the University of Wyoming for almost four decades, beginning in 1947, and produced numerous pieces which are on display throughout Wyoming and the world.
Russin's Lincoln bust has been called "the largest such depiction of the nation's 16th president ever done." It was placed on the highest point of old U.S. Highway 30 in 1959 and was moved to its present location when I-80 was built. Russin also sculpted three pieces on display in Casper: the "Prometheus" at the county library, "Energy Man" at the Chamber of Commerce and "Fountainhead" at City Hall.
Another "Energy Man" piece is on display at the Department of Energy in Washington, D.C. A work called "Wyoming Crystal" is housed in the State Capitol in Cheyenne. Just recently, two bas reliefs he carved for the entrance of the old law school building on the UW campus were removed before the building's demolition. They will be placed inside an addition planned for the current law school on the east end of campus. He also did the "Wyoming Family" piece which graces the center of Prexy's Pasture and the Benjamin Franklin statute nearby.
Susan Moldenhauer, director of the UW Art Museum, said Russin was known "as a prolific artist and a dedicated professor." She said he did much figurative work, mostly in bronze, while his works in marble and other stone materials "were more abstract." Moldenhauer said she was at an international art fair in Miami just last Sunday when she mentioned to an elderly woman sitting next to her that she was from Wyoming. The woman asked whether Susan knew of a man named Robert Russin, a teacher of hers at Cooper Union in the '40s. "She was remembering him very fondly and said how sad the students were when he left for Wyoming," Moldenhauer said.
During his long career at UW, Russin was granted a Ford Foundation Fellowship to work in Italy, and he returned there frequently to work on projects. When one of his children was born at the old Ivinson Hospital in Laramie, Russin was inspired to make a sculpture called "Fulfillment," depicting mother and child. He held onto that work until 2006, when he donated it to the present Ivinson Memorial Hospital on 30th Street.
Russin's works are also in the collection of the U.S. Navy at Abbott Laboratories, the Hyde Park Museum and his alma mater in New York.
Jack Rosenthal of Casper told the Casper Star-Tribune that Russin "had great depth to him, beyond his art. I'd sit and talk to him while he was chipping away on a piece. He had strong feelings about the world and about people, a great sense of values. He knew what was truly important."
Rosenthal said Russin's last request to him was that his ashes be buried up on Sherman Hill near his favorite work, the Lincoln bust.
For full obituary, go to http://www.trib.com/news/wyoming/.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Read freely on Bill of Rights Day
The Bill of Rights Institute celebrates "Bill of Rights Day" each Dec. 15. Its web site has resources to help educators teach about the Bill of Rights in the classroom.Here are some of the web site's resources:
"You will find Founders Online, which includes audio clips, biographical essays, classroom activities, and videos on our nation's Founding Fathers; readings for your students on the Bill of Rights; free, complete lesson plans for middle and high school students; and enriching background information from Princeton University Professor Dr. Ken I. Kersch on First Amendment freedoms."
You can also subscribe to monthly e-lessons, such as "The Bill of Rights in the News" and "The Bill of Rights in Times of Crisis."
In October, the American Library Association named the Bill of Rights Institute the best free reference site of 2007. It was described as "an excellent resource for both teachers and high school students.”
Go to http://billofrightsinstitute.org/borday/.
Rousing concert series in Evanston in 2008
The 2008 Uinta County Concert Series begins Friday, January 25 and runs through Friday, May 23. The Young Musicians Festival, also held during this time on March 7 and 8, encourages musicians of all ages and abilities, from young beginners to adults and teachers to perform. Each performance is evaluated by visiting clinicians and open to the public. Some outstanding performers, high school age and younger, will be selected to perform that night at a formal Honors concert for the community.
Molly's Revenge -- Friday, March 7, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. Celebrate Irish with a classical combination of highland bagpipes, uilleann pipes, whistles, fiddle, mandolin, guitar and bouzouki, with an occasional rousing chorus song mixed in.
Registration ffee ($15 by February 8, $20 February 9-22) includes the Molly's Revenge concert on March 7, the achievement day performance, and unlimited workshops. Workshops include Celtic Style session, piano technique, woodwind, voice and brass fundamentals, string workshop, and symphony orchestra workshop.
Dates and performers in the concert series:
Caboose -- Friday, January 25, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. A band that takes out all the stops, drives each tune home, with smooth, hot vocals, an insistent bass, catchy guitar, and a fiddle that won't quit!
Great Basin Street Band -- Friday, February, 22, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. Great Basin has created a solid reputation at a number of recognized jazz and music festivals including the Snowbird Jazz & Blues Festival. The band is entertaining and musically outstanding, promising and exciting experience for any audience.
Chris Proctor -- Thursday, March 6, 7:00 p.m. at Mountain View High School. Critics call Chris's acoustic guitar playing "breathtaking," "haunting," and "rich." Chris gives the guitar sole responsibility for a piece's rhythmic, melocic, and harmonic components.
Molly's Revenge -- Friday, March 7, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. Celebrate Irish with a classical combination of highland bagpipes, uilleann pipes, whistles, fiddle, mandolin, guitar and bouzouki, with an occasional rousing chorus song mixed in. Fry Street Quartet -- Friday, April 4, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. Hailed as "a triumph of ensemble playing." This classical music group explores the medium of the string quartet and its life-affirming potential with "profound understanding."
Paul Rosenthal -- Friday, April 25, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. Mr. Rosenthal began playing the violin at age three. He has played with orchestras from Alaska to New York and overseas as well. He performs on a Joseph Guarnerius violin made in 1706.
6 Miles Ahead -- Friday, May 9, 7:00 p.m. at Davis Middle School. Molded in the tradition of other great vocal groups such as Manhattan Transfer, they perform music arranged for 4-6 part mixed voices with rhythm section accompaniment and some a cappella. They perform a wide range of muscial styles.
Blue 4 Trio -- Friday, May 23, 7:00 p.m. at Machine Shop in Evanston. This extra event is a 1930s theme dinner with live vintage jazz. Dinner begins at 6:30. Wear 1930s apparel and be served by Evanston "celebrities." New Deal era photo display presented by the Uinta County Museum. Blue 4 Trio performs music that swings. Its music from the '20s to the '60s, all happening at the same time, woven into a seamless, beautiful whole.
Season tickets are various prices and include all concerts except the extra event. FMI call (307) 679-2348 or go on-line at http://www.youngmusicians.net/. Can purchase tickets in person at the Evanston Chamber of Commerce, Mt. Music, Home Decor, and Maurices.
"The 'M' Word" selected as theatre finalist
From a UW press release:
The University of Wyoming's original production of "The 'M' Word" has been selected as one of five Region VII finalists for the 2008 Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF).
Written by professor and playwright-in-residence William Missouri Downs (a 2005 Governor's Arts Awards recipient) and directed by professor Lee Hodgson, "The 'M' Word" is a darkly comic look at UW 10 years after Matthew Shepard's murder. The play examines the collision between perception and reality while also poking fun at campus politics.
"The 'M' Word was chosen as a KCACTF regional finalist from a pool of more than 30 productions. The regional event, which is part of the Kennedy Center's annual competition for student actors, directors and playwrights representing colleges and universities nationwide, is Feb. 18-22 at UW.
"Our selection for Region VII KCACTF is a nice recognition from our peers and colleagues," says Hodgson. "It's an honor to represent the University of Wyoming at the regional festival, especially since we will be hosting the festival. It will be wonderful to mount our production at home in such a supportive environment.
The winner of the regional competition will advance to the KCACTF National Festival in April at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Four UW student playwrights have also been selected as regional finalists and will compete for a bid to the national festival. Casper's Leean Torske Stellingwerf, "The Problem With Apples," Laramie's Anna Austin Brownsted, "Niagara Fell," and Laramie's Amy Hollon, "Backyard Gene Pool," are finalists in the one-act play division. Nicholas Gene Terpstra-Schwab of Colfax, Iowa, "Sharing This Room With You," is a finalist in the 10-minute play division.
Also, 14 UW student actors -- the most in school history -- will participate in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition. They are: Caleb Clark, John Byron Hill, JP Jaramillo, Nick Linn, Claudine Mboligikpelani and Ken Stellingwerf of Laramie; Harlan Post, Jake Staley and Dominic Syracuse of Cheyenne; Chris Egging of Gurley, Neb.; Rachel Rosenfeld of Aurora, Colo.; Katrina DeSpain of Loveland, Colo.; Kira Galindo of Goodyear, Ariz.; and Katie Herbert of Granby, Colo.
Region VII of the KCACTF comprises Wyoming, Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Washington.
FMI: Go to the Web site at http://www.kcactf.org/7/festival/2008index.htm.
The University of Wyoming's original production of "The 'M' Word" has been selected as one of five Region VII finalists for the 2008 Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF).
Written by professor and playwright-in-residence William Missouri Downs (a 2005 Governor's Arts Awards recipient) and directed by professor Lee Hodgson, "The 'M' Word" is a darkly comic look at UW 10 years after Matthew Shepard's murder. The play examines the collision between perception and reality while also poking fun at campus politics.
"The 'M' Word was chosen as a KCACTF regional finalist from a pool of more than 30 productions. The regional event, which is part of the Kennedy Center's annual competition for student actors, directors and playwrights representing colleges and universities nationwide, is Feb. 18-22 at UW.
"Our selection for Region VII KCACTF is a nice recognition from our peers and colleagues," says Hodgson. "It's an honor to represent the University of Wyoming at the regional festival, especially since we will be hosting the festival. It will be wonderful to mount our production at home in such a supportive environment.
The winner of the regional competition will advance to the KCACTF National Festival in April at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Four UW student playwrights have also been selected as regional finalists and will compete for a bid to the national festival. Casper's Leean Torske Stellingwerf, "The Problem With Apples," Laramie's Anna Austin Brownsted, "Niagara Fell," and Laramie's Amy Hollon, "Backyard Gene Pool," are finalists in the one-act play division. Nicholas Gene Terpstra-Schwab of Colfax, Iowa, "Sharing This Room With You," is a finalist in the 10-minute play division.
Also, 14 UW student actors -- the most in school history -- will participate in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition. They are: Caleb Clark, John Byron Hill, JP Jaramillo, Nick Linn, Claudine Mboligikpelani and Ken Stellingwerf of Laramie; Harlan Post, Jake Staley and Dominic Syracuse of Cheyenne; Chris Egging of Gurley, Neb.; Rachel Rosenfeld of Aurora, Colo.; Katrina DeSpain of Loveland, Colo.; Kira Galindo of Goodyear, Ariz.; and Katie Herbert of Granby, Colo.
Region VII of the KCACTF comprises Wyoming, Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Washington.
FMI: Go to the Web site at http://www.kcactf.org/7/festival/2008index.htm.
Carbon County lectures continue into 2008
The lecture series, The Power of Place: Legacies of Carbon County continues January through March, 2008 at the Carbon County Higher Education Center, 705 Rodeo Street in Rawlins. The lectures are being recorded and archived at CCHEC and the Carbon County Museum. Soon they will be available as podcasts on the CCHEC website. Time for all lectures is 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Some (not all are listed) of the upcoming topics include:
- Weeds and Pests of Carbon County, Larry Justesen (1/8/08)
- The History and Future of Agriculture in Carbon County, Colleen Stratton (1/15/08)
- Mining the Stories with Maps and Interviews, Ebba Stedille (1/22/08)
- The Rich Heritage of the Platte River Valley, Dick Perue (1/29/08)
- The Vibrant Political History of Carbon County, Bill Vasey (2/5/08)
- The Rich Heritage of the Little Snake River Valley, Linda Fleming (2/12/08)
- Where History is Made, Nancy Anderson and Marv Cronberg (2/19/08)
- Strong Women of Carbon County, Margaret Brown (3/4/08)
- The Legacy of Native Americans in Carbon County, Ms. Merle Haas and Alonso Moss (3/18/08)
- Final presentation: The History of Carbon County: A Celebration of our local historians and the legacies they have preserved for our future. *Co-sponsored by the Carbon County Museum, with Candy Moulton, Rans Baker, Dan Kinnaman, Dick Perue, Nancy Anderson and Linda Fleming (3/28 and 3/29)
FMI please call (307) 328-9274
Gatchell Museum hosts Christmas open house
The Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum at 100 Fort Street in downtown Buffalo will host its Christmas Open House on Monday, Nov. 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It's free and open to the public.The museum "is dedicated to following the late Jim Gatchell's vision of preserving the history of Johnson County, Wyoming, with emphasis on its Frontier Era, through the collection and conservation of related art, archives and artifacts. In the interest of educating museum visitors, the staff will continue to develop projects including interpretive exhibits, publications and programs which focus on the Powder River Country of Johnson County."
FMI: 307-684-9331, jmuseum@vcn.com
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Audition for the Kirov Academy of Ballet
Soon to be holding auditions for its 2008 summer program and 2008-2009 school year program, the Kirov Academy of Ballet's audition tour will visit cities throughout the U. S. Students unable to attend a scheduled audition site may also audition by submitting a video or photographs, or by scheduling a private audition at their facilities in Washington, D. C.KAB's 17-year old ballet boarding school program is one of the first in the U. S. to integrate the classic Baganova curriculum with academics and a rich resident life experience. Many of KAB's graduates have gone on to professional careers with companies such as San Francisco Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, The Joffrey, Royal Swedish Ballet, Boston Ballet, Tulsa Ballet, Colorado Ballet, and many others. Artistic Director Oleg Vinogradov, former artistic director of The Kirov Ballet, has assembled a team of ballet instructors who have danced and taught in the world's leading companies and schools. Summer students receive the same professional-level training as our year-round students; all of the summer ballet classes are taught by our acclaimed year-round instructors.
Cities included in the audition include Denver. Audition site is at the Colorado Ballet Academy at 1278 Lincoln Street from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for 10-13 age group and 12:45 p.m.-2:00 p.m. for the 14-18 age group. Registration begins 30 minutes prior to each audition.
FMI go to http://www.kirovacademydc.org/ or call (202) 832-1087.
At the Nic through December
The exhibit EVERYDAY PLACES: Life in Ritual is a collaborative installation with dance, visual art and video. The following artists' work is included in the display: Judy Bejarano, Choreographer and Artistic Director of IMPACT Dance; Lisa Morgan, choreographer; John Giarrizzo, visual artist; Kaidi Dunstan, visual artist; Adam Brandon, new media; Erick-Howrey clark, textile artist.
The Plains of Sweet Regret by Mary Lucier is an exhibit that was commissioned by the North Dakota Museum of Art. It combines photos and video of abandoned structures in the Western landscape.
The Plains of Sweet Regret by Mary Lucier is an exhibit that was commissioned by the North Dakota Museum of Art. It combines photos and video of abandoned structures in the Western landscape.
Writers: plan now for summer 2008
Wyoming Writers, Inc., has announced that its 34th annual conference will be held June 6-8, 2008, in Casper. Conference planner Jeanne Rogers is now booking the list of presenters which will include several literary agents. Deadline for sending in submissions for the writing contest is Jan. 31. For more info, go to http://www.wyowriters.org.
The sixteenth annual Jackson Hole Writers Conference will be held June 26-29 in Jackson. The workshops and presentations are scheduled for the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts. Novelist Tim Sandlin and JHWC staffer Juli Smith are rounding out the line-up of writers and agents. FMI: http://www.jacksonholewritersconference.com.
The sixteenth annual Jackson Hole Writers Conference will be held June 26-29 in Jackson. The workshops and presentations are scheduled for the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts. Novelist Tim Sandlin and JHWC staffer Juli Smith are rounding out the line-up of writers and agents. FMI: http://www.jacksonholewritersconference.com.
Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
In 1908, the Cheyenne Daily Leader announced the pending arrival of future CFD Hall of Fame inductee Ikua Purdy and a group of Hawaiian cowboys (Paniolos) to compete at Cheyenne Frontier Days. 100 years later, the City of Cheyenne and the City of Waimea, Hawaii, have established a sister city bond. This partnership will be celebrated through a new exhibit at the museum commemorating the day that champion roper of the Hawaiian Islands, Ikua Purdy, secured the 1908 title of World Champion Steer Roper at Cheyenne Frontier Days. Ikua's victory in Cheyenne is memorialized in a Hawaiian folk song (see below). In Waimea, there is a sculpture dedicated to Purdy. A smaller version of this bronze will donated to the CFD Museum by the Paniolo Society.Waiomina (Wyoming) - by Helen Parker
Kaulana Ikuwa me Ka`au`a, lä
Na `eu kïpuka `ili
Na äiwaiwa `o Eulopa, lä
Waimea e ka `eu
Ka ua Kïpu`upu`u
Kahua Waiomina
`Olua nä moho puna ke ao, lä
Na `eu kipuka `ili`
A`ohe kupu`eu nanä e a`e, lä
Waimea e ka `eu
Ka ua Kïpu`upu`u
Meke anu a`o Kaleponi
Na ke kelekalapa i ha`i mai, lä
Na `eu kïpuka `ili
Ikuwa e ka moho puni ke ao, lä
Waimea e ka `eu
Ka ua Kïpu`upu`u
Na kuahiwi `ekolu
Piha hau`oli ou mau kini, lä
Na `eu kïpuka `ili
Kaulana ka ua Kïpu`upu`u, lä
Waimea e ka `eu
Na kuahiwi `ekolu
Kahua Waiomina
Ha`ina hou mai ka puana, lä
Na `eu kïpuka `ili
Ke kaula `ili a`o kani ka uwepa, lä
Waimea e ka `eu
Na kuahiwi `ekolu
Waimea e ka `eu
English translation:
Famous are Ikuwa and Ka`au`a
Both mischievous with the lariat
Both experts in Europe
Waimea full of gusto
The hard rain named Kipu`upu`u
To the stadium of Wyoming
Both are delegates to the world championship
Both mischievous with the lariat
No expert to excel you
Waimea full of gusto
The hard rain named Kipu`upu`u
To the cold of California
A telegraph brought us the word
Of your mischievous lariats
Ikuwa is the champion of the world
Waimea full of gusto
The hard rain named Kipu`upu`u
And the three mountains
Your people are full of happiness
Of your mischievous lariats
Famous is the Kipu`upu`u rain
Waimea full of gusto
The three mountains
The stadium of Wyoming
Tell the refrain
Of your mischievous lariats
The sound of the lariats
Waimea full of gusto
The three mountains
Waimea full of life
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Governor's Arts Awards' winners announced
Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal has announced the recipients of the 2007 Governor’s Arts Awards:
- Lander Community Concerts Association, Lander
- Tucker Smith, Pinedale
- Neil E. Hansen, Powell
- Michael McClure, Lander
The winners will be celebrated at the annual Governor’s Arts Awards ceremony on Feb. 22, 2008, in Cheyenne. For more information, call the WAC at 307-777-7742 or go to the web site at http://wyoarts.state.wy.us.
Look for profiles of the Governor's Arts Awards winners in the winter issue of WAC's Artscapes newsletter.
McEwin's work wins ASU "purchase award"
Florence Alfano McEwin has received the "purchase award" prize for a visual arts competition conducted by Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Ark. Judge was Marjorie Devon, director of the Tamarind Institute in Albuquerque.Florence teaches art at Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs. Her winning entry was #1 Cupcake (shown at right), from the series "Secrets of Little Red Riding Hood." It's chine colle, solar etch, 12" x 8.5".
The work will be part of the exhibition, 2008 Delta National Small Prints, held Jan. 17-Feb. 17 in the Bradbury Gallery at the ASU Fowler Art Center.
"Scrooge!" hits the stage Dec. 13
"Scrooge!" will be presented Thursday Dec. 13, through Sunday Dec. 23 by the Off Square Theater Company in Jackson. You may purchase tickets at the Center Box Office (307-733-4900) or at the Off Square Theater Company website at http://www.offsquare.org/.Location will be the Center Theater, 265 S. Cache Street, Jackson. Click Here To Get Tickets. Performances are at 7 p.m. in the evening, 2 pm. matinees; 3 p.m. on Sundays.
Here's a short description:
Off Square Theater presents "Scrooge!" This is a musical adaptation of the Dicken's classical Christmas tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the three ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come. Don't be a Scrooge - take your whole family!
Deadline extended for Poetry Out Loud
The sign-up deadline for Wyoming Poetry Out Loud has been moved to Jan. 4, 2008.
The National Endowment for the Arts, the nation’s largest annual funder of the arts, and the Poetry Foundation, the nation’s largest literary organization, have partnered together with the Wyoming Arts Council to bring Poetry Out Loud to high schools across America.
Poetry Out Loud builds on the recent resurgence of poetry as an oral art form, as demonstrated by the slam poetry movement and the immense popularity of rap music among our youth. The program encourages the nation’s youth to learn about great poetry through memorization and performance, which help students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and internalize our rich literary heritage.
The program materials are available now from the Wyoming Arts Council. The school contests will take place during the spring semester of this school year, culminating in the state finals in Cheyenne March 10-11. Many of the program materials are also available on the website at http://www.poetryoutloud.org/.
Last year, eight schools from across Wyoming participated in the program. Josh Schaberg from Buffalo High School, a second-time school winner, won the state finals and represented Wyoming at the national finals in Washington, D.C. In 2006, our first Wyoming POL winner was Kamaria Stephens of Cheyenne East High School.
This information may be shared with drama, speech and language arts teachers teaching grades 9-12. Please respond by Jan. 4, 2008. If a school is interested in participating in Wyoming’s Poetry Out Loud competition, or needs further information, please contact Mike Shay at (307) 777-5234 or mshay@state.wy.us or Marcia Dunsmore, project coordinator, at poetryoutloud@rushmore.com.
The National Endowment for the Arts, the nation’s largest annual funder of the arts, and the Poetry Foundation, the nation’s largest literary organization, have partnered together with the Wyoming Arts Council to bring Poetry Out Loud to high schools across America.
Poetry Out Loud builds on the recent resurgence of poetry as an oral art form, as demonstrated by the slam poetry movement and the immense popularity of rap music among our youth. The program encourages the nation’s youth to learn about great poetry through memorization and performance, which help students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and internalize our rich literary heritage.
The program materials are available now from the Wyoming Arts Council. The school contests will take place during the spring semester of this school year, culminating in the state finals in Cheyenne March 10-11. Many of the program materials are also available on the website at http://www.poetryoutloud.org/.
Last year, eight schools from across Wyoming participated in the program. Josh Schaberg from Buffalo High School, a second-time school winner, won the state finals and represented Wyoming at the national finals in Washington, D.C. In 2006, our first Wyoming POL winner was Kamaria Stephens of Cheyenne East High School.
This information may be shared with drama, speech and language arts teachers teaching grades 9-12. Please respond by Jan. 4, 2008. If a school is interested in participating in Wyoming’s Poetry Out Loud competition, or needs further information, please contact Mike Shay at (307) 777-5234 or mshay@state.wy.us or Marcia Dunsmore, project coordinator, at poetryoutloud@rushmore.com.
Guidebooks & maps: literature programs at other state arts agencies
One of the great things about attending national conferences is hearing about what other state arts agencies are doing, especially in regards to individual artists. It may come as no surprise that state literature programs are publishing maps and guidebooks to highlight their writers, as well as how-to manuals to assist their careers. Wyomingarts readers may remember our 2003 anthology, "Deep West: A Literary Tour of Wyoming." It was a project of the Wyo. Center for the Book, but I served as one of the co-editors. It featured excerpts and original essays from 19 of the state's writers (14 were WAC fellowship winners) as well as a literary map.The North Carolina Arts Council has teamed up with the University of North Carolina Press on a three-volume series, “Literary Trails of North Carolina.” The first one covers the mountain region, and was edited by Georgann Eubanks, one of the founders of the North Carolina Writers’ Network. It features 18 one-day tours (maps included) of the western part of the state that places you “in the middle of the communities, historic sites, and hangouts of notable writers of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction and plays.”
I went right to the index to look up Thomas Wolfe, one of my favorites. His fellow citizens in Asheville didn’t take kindly to his thinly-veiled portraits of them in “Look Homeward, Angel.” His mother’s rooming house, referred to as “Dixieland” in the novel, was falling apart until a local group renovated it and opened it as the Thomas Wolfe Memorial. Wolfe’s mother, Julia, once told F. Scott Fitzgerald that she didn’t rent her rooms to drunks referring, we can assume, to F. Scott himself.
Another Wolfe in the book is contemporary writer Tom Wolfe, best known for “The Right Stuff” and “The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test.” This native of Virginia wrote about a character from Alleghany County in the remote western edge of N.C. in his latest novel, “I am Charlotte Simmons.”
Other writers in this volume: Anne Tyler, Romulus Linney, Sequoyah, Gail Godwin, Elizabeth Spencer, Nina Simone, and many others. For more info, go to http://www.uncpress.unc.edu. Or you can contact literature coordinator Debbie McGill at the N.C. Arts Council. We can look forward to the companion volumes, featuring the central part of the state and the coast.
The New York State Council on the Arts and Bright Hill Press teamed up for the state’s literary map. New York, of course, has a rich literary history. The color map includes Mark Twain, who lived for a time in his wife’s home town of Elmira; Willa Cather, who left Nebraska for Greenwich Village; James Baldwin of Harlem and Greenwich Village; Agha Shahid Ali, who taught in Binghampton, N.Y., and once was a judge for the WAC writing fellowships; and Herman Melville from, as they say here, upstate. On the flip side of the map is an index of the state’s “literary lives.” It includes county-by-county lists of writers, and a whole section of authors from New York City. There’s also a guide to literary sites. You can read more at the N.Y. State Literary Website at http://www.nyslittree.org.
The Illinois Arts Council, in cooperation with the Neighborhood Writing Alliance in Chicago, has compiled a booklet on “How to Get Published.” It’s a basic how-to guide for writers. Topics include “editing tips” (proofread!), “writing programs, conferences, workshops, and readings,” and “copyrights.” It’s very good for beginners but also has some reminders for established writers. Example: “Always investigate a contest’s reputation before sending money.”
The Illinois Arts Council may send you a copy if you ask nice. Contact the IAC at iac.info@illinois.gov.
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