Monday, November 30, 2009

Showcase of student composers' work

From a UW press release:

UW student composers will showcase their original works during two concerts in the Fine Arts Center concert hall. The first concert is Tuesday, Dec. 1, and the second concert is Thursday, Dec. 3. Both concerts are free and run from 1:10-2 p.m.

Following Thursday's concert there will be a reception with refreshments and opportunities to discuss the music with the composers.

Each concert will feature different works. Michael Amend will premiere a cantata version of his mini-opera, "Compromise." A string duet for violin and cello written by Michael Parkins will be performed by UW faculty members John Fadial and Beth Vanderborgh. Kenneth Jimenez' sonata for trumpet and piano will be performed by Scott Meredith and Rubia Santos.

Other composers represented are Daniel Galbreath, Jacob Gunnels, Max Harrington, Dennis Hillebrand, David Koch, Alex Minier, Ferdinand Niepel, Ryan Pendleton, Amber Pollock, Justin C. Smith and John Wilhelm.

For more information, call Anne Guzzo at (307) 766-5109, or e-mail her at guzzo@uwyo.edu.

Photo: John Wilhelm is among the students who will perform original works.

Makin' A List & Checkin' It Twice

Clay Paper Scissors Gallery & Studio invites you to see our new show, Makin' A List & Checkin' It Twice. The media includes jewelery, felting, clay, encaustic, painting, batik and more! Many small items ideal for gifts. 10% of the proceeds will be donated to Needs in honor of the season. Featured artists include:
Alberto Alcantara
Cathie Carr-Lundfelt
Crystal Lawrence
Ginnie Madsen
Jon Madsen
Sharon Mathiessen
Ila Miller
Paulette Rasmussen
Gretchen Reed
Meggan Stordahl
November 22-December 31, 2009.
Hours: Thursdays 4-7, Fridays 1-5, Saturdays 11-5, by appointment & serendipity!
1506 Thomes, Ste B. (facing the tracks on 15th)
307-631-6039

Customer Appreciation Day Dec. 5 at Sheridan Stationery and Gallery

The good folks at Sheridan Stationery Books & Gallery at 206 N. Main in downtown Sheridan send this:

Stop by the store on Saturday, December 5, for our annual Customer Appreciation Day. John and Toni will be serving his wonderful black bean chili and scrumptious hot buttered rums, as well as a number of other treats. Let us show you how much we have enjoyed serving you this past year. Those of you who have experienced our hospitality in the past know how good it is. Gail Irwin of Casper will also be in the store from 1-3 p.m. signing copies of her book about her blind dog Sage. This is a great inspirational tale.

Jackson Hole Chorale and Symphony team up for "The Messiah" in Driggs, Idaho

The Jackson Hole Chorale and the Jackson Hole Symphony Orchestra will perform Handel's "The Messiah" on Sunday, Dec. 6, 3 p.m., at the Presbyterian Church on South Loop Rd., Driggs, Idaho. This event is free and open to the public -- donations accepted. Free refreshments following the concert.

The performance is directed by Al Young. Accompanist is Laura Huckin.

FMI: http://www.jhcenterforthearts.org/index.cfm?id=residents_chorale

"Desert Photography" at CFAC in Rock Springs

Bret Zerger's photographs are featured in "Desert Photography" at the Community Fine Arts Center, 400 C Street, Rock Springs, Dec. 2-3. The opening reception will be held on Friday, Dec. 4, 5-7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

FMI: www.cfac4art.com

Dancers' Workshop presents "Alice"

Sunday, November 29, 2009

"Macbeth" is next project for Shake in ChyWy

Shake in ChyWy is "a diverse group of people in the Cheyenne Wyoming area committed to an enjoyable process and a great product bringing Shakespeare experiments to the area."

"Macbeth" is the group's latest project.

Angel Katen invites

Macbeth people to meet at 6 p.m. at Carey Junior High on Monday the 30th of November. Come at 6 and bring your schedules! Also bring anyone you think might want to help at this point. We have lots to do and would love help from old and new members alike!



For more info, or to join the Shake in ChyWy Facebook group, go to http://tinyurl.com/ybpd47v

Friday, November 27, 2009

"Jentel Presents" Dec. 1 in Sheridan

Photo: Back row (left to right): Beth Loffreda, Mary Ann Peters, Mary Gaitskill, Shane Darwent. Front row (left to right) Josh Willis, Georgia Rowswell

Jentel Presents at Sheridan Stationery

East coast, west coast and two from Wyoming; Jentel welcomes the closing residents for 2009 from around the country to the foothills in Banner.

Jentel is pleased to present this month’s residents in an event open to the public. “Jentel Presents” will take place Tuesday, Dec. 1, 5:30-7 p.m. at Sheridan Stationery, Main Street, Sheridan.

This month’s presenters include a photographer, a novelist, a multi genre writer, a painter, a fiber/paper artist, and an oil painter. “Jentel Presents” is a community outreach program that features visual presentations and readings by the visual artists and writers at the residency.

Presenters include: Shane Darwent, Mt. Pleasant, SC; A photographer, Shane is inspired by the landscape which is spotted with metaphors of the human existence within and is compelled to capture and share this with others; Mary Gaitskill, Red Hook, NY; A novelist, Mary taught herself how to write fiction and currently works as a writer, journalist and teacher; Beth Loffreda, Laramie; A multi genre writer, Beth is an obsessive mountain biker, loves Wyoming and only misses the Italian-Americans back home in Philadelphia; Mary Ann Peters, Seattle, WA; A painter and installation artist, Mary Beth is a jackess of all painterly trades as well as a dynamite softball pitcher; Georgia Rowswell, Cheyenne; A paper maker and fiber artist, Georgia loves to use unusual materials in her artwork. Her motto is, ’why be normal when you can be interesting!’; Josh Willis, Brooklyn, NY; An oil painter, Josh teaches and hopes one day to be a firefighter in NYC.

For anyone looking for a stimulating evening, come join the crowd at Sheridan Stationery, Main Street. There is no admission charge for “Jentel Presents” and refreshments are available.

The Jentel Foundation offers dedicated individuals a supportive environment in which to further their creative development. While at Jentel, visual artists and writers have the opportunity to experience unfettered time to allow for thoughtful reflection and meditation on the creative process in a setting that preserves the agricultural and historical integrity of the land.

The Jentel Artist Residency Program accepts applications twice a year from visual artists in all media and writers in all genres for a one-month residency. A residency includes a comfortable accommodation; common living, dining and recreation areas; a private workspace and a stipend to help defray expenses during the program. For more information please visit http://www.jentelarts.org/ or call Jentel at (307)737-2311.

"Christmas in Wyoming" at Wind City Books

A"Christmas in Wyoming" book signing will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5, at Wind City Books, 152 S. Center St., Casper.

Come out to meet Wyoming authors and buy their books.

Here's the schedule:

Susan Anderson, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Gene Gagliano, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Zak Pullen, noon-2 p.m. (cover of Pullen's latest children's book is shown above)
Marcia Strausner, 1-3 p.m.
Chad Hanson, 2-4 p.m.
Bayard Fox, 3-5 p.m.
Tom Rea, 3-5 p.m.

FMI: http://www.myspace.com/418785996 or 307-315-6003.

Cody Burrows performs today in Thermopolis

Cody Burrows will be performing at the Storyteller Bookstore, 528 Broadway, in Thermopolis on Friday, Nov. 27, 4 p.m. He will be joined by Jake Austin on the lead and slide guitar and Mandela on bass. The concert is free and open to the public. Cody's new CD, "Nothing Goes to Waste," will be on sale at the store.

Cody grew up in Thermopolis and played trumpet in the Thermopolis H.S. band.

The Casper Star-Tribune featured a Q&A with the singer/songwriter today on page 8 of the "Weekender" section.

FMI: 307-864-3721 or 921-2113.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Wyoming Art for the Cure seeks artwork for the 2010 event


Wyoming Art for the Cure, A Celebration of Art and Life is encouraging artists to submit original artwork for auction at the gala event on April 23, 2010 in Cheyenne, Wyo.

The event is a fundraiser for the Wyoming Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Patrons bid on original, donated artwork from local and nationally-recognized artists to raise money for breast cancer programs. Over 75 percent of the funds raised at the event stay in Wyoming to fight breast cancer in the state.

Event attendees vote for their favorite works with cash prizes of $200 for First Place and $100 for Second Place awarded in the categories of: Mixed Media, Water-based, Sculpture, Pastel or Drawing, Oil, and Photography. A "Best in Show" winner is also selected and awarded a $300 cash prize.
Interested artists must make a commitment to submitting a piece by Feb. 19, 2010 and all artwork must be received by Wyoming Art for the Cure by April 16, 2010. Artwork will be displayed on the event Web site at www.komenwyoming.org/wyomingartforthecure upon receipt.

For questions, contact Wyoming Art for the Cure at 307-432-0606 or info@artforthecure.org or visit the event Web site at www.komenwyoming.org/wyomingartforthecure
Event Contact: Harvey Deselms 307-432-0606, info@artforthecure.org.
Art work above from the 2009 show: Missintended Purpose by Abi Paytoe Gbayee

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Postmark deadline Dec. 1 for WAC roster

The Dec. 1 deadline is closing in for all of those Wyoming artists, performers, writers and folk artists who want to apply to the Wyoming Arts Council's artists' roster.

For an application, go to http://wyoarts.state.wy.us/Apps/Roster/ArtistRosterApplication2010-2011.pdf

Apply now for BIG READ grants from NEA

One of The Big Read books: "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien

The Big Read is accepting applications from nonprofits to conduct month-long, community-wide reads between Sept 2010 and June 2011. Organizations selected to participate will receive a grant from $2,500 to $20,000, access to training resources, educational and promotional materials, inclusion of your organization on The Big Read web site, and the prestige of participating in a highly visible national program. Apply now!

Ranching in Teton County a topic of December events at library in Jackson

Teton County Library in Jackson sends this news:

Announcing an exhibition: “Land. Trust. Ranching in Their Hands." Photographer Anne Muller and Jackson Hole Land Trust document the people behind conservation easement-protected lands that remain agriculturally productive. View the story of the unsung heroes of the valley's horse and cattle operations, who labor sun up to sun down to keep the fields green, the ditches flowing, the fences mended, the hay cut and the animals fed. Exhibition includes 30 black-and-white images by Anne Muller with quotes from ranch managers. On display Dec. 14 - Jan. 13. Cost: Free. Location: Library Exhibit Gallery.

On Tuesday, Dec. 15, the library presents “Ranching 2010: A Look at Ranching in 21st Century Teton County” from 6-7 p.m. Meet local ranch managers and agricultural producers and learn about some of the challenges they face in the modern ranching era. The Jackson Hole Land Trust presents a public conversation that will shed light on the current state of ranching in Teton County and show how conservation easements help preserve working ranches. Cost: Free. Location: Ordway Auditorium.

FMI: Adult Humanities Coordinator, Oona Doherty, 733-2164 ext. 135 or odoherty@tclib.org.

Register by Dec. 31 for 2010 NIC Fest booth

NIC Fest is one of wyomingarts' favorite summer events:

Artists interested in having a booth at next summer’s NIC Fest, the Nicolaysen Art Museum & Discovery Center’s annual summer community art festival, can apply online now at http://www.zapplication.org/. The booth application deadline for NIC Fest, which will be held June 25-27, 2010, is Dec. 31, 2009.

For more information, call the NIC at (307) 235-5247 or visit http://www.nicfest.org/

Opening reception Nov. 20 at KEAG Gallery for Dona Fleming and Ray Jordan


Don't count out the KEAG Gallery. Here's an announcement:

KEAG Gallery is exhibiting new works by fiber artist Dona Fleming (shown above) and painter Raymond Jordan.

Opening Reception is Friday, November 20, 6-8 p.m. The exhibit will show through December
21.

KEAG Gallery is located at 414 Grand Avenue, Laramie, 307-755-3308. FMI: http://www.keaggallery.com/

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Call for entries: 2010 Green Book Festival

From a press release:

The 2010 Green Book Festival has issued the call for entries to its annual competition honoring books that contribute to greater understanding, respect and positive action on the changing worldwide environment.

The 2010 Green Book Festival will consider published, self-published and independent publisher works in the following categories: non-fiction, fiction, children's books, teenage, how-to, audio/spoken word, comics/graphic novels, poetry, science fiction/horror, biography/autobiography, gardening, cookbooks, animals, photography/art, e-books, wild card (anything goes!), scientific, white paper, legal, business, mystery and spiritual.

Entries can be in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese or Italian. Our grand prize for the 2010 Green Book Festival Author of the Year is $1500 and transportation to our April 30-May 2, 2010 outdoor festival in Los Angeles as part of the LA Garden Show OR an equivalent amount donated in your name to the environmental charity of your choice.

A panel of judges will determine the winners based on the following criteria:
1) The overall writing style and presentation of the work;
2) The potential of the work to enhance understanding of the environment and its issues;

TO ENTER: Entry forms are available online at http://www.greenbookfestival.com or may be faxed/e-mailed to you by emailing GreenBookFestival@sbcglobal.net or calling our office at 323-665-8080.

Kaycee's Georgie Sicking in the news

In a Nov. 13 article on the Cowboy Legacy web site, Elladean Hays Bittner wrote a story on a series of interviews with Arizona ranch women. One of those interviewees was cowboy poet Georgie Sicking of Kaycee, Wyo. (pictured above), who spent most of her life in Arizona. To read the article and see accompanying photos, go to http://www.cowboylegacy.org/articles/ElladeanHaysBittner (this is a registration site).

Coincidentally, Katherine T. Feiten (former intern with the WAC's folk arts program), wrote an interview with Georgie Sicking that will be featured in the next issue of the WAC's Wyoming Artscapes newsletter, which is due out next week. If you don't receive the print copy of the newsletter, look for the digital version of it on the WAC's web site some time in December. Go to http://www.wyomingartscouncil.com

Dainis Hazners' "Bridge" airs on Wisconsin Public Radio Nov. 22

Wyomingarts readers may know Dainis Hazners from Story as a two-time WAC fellowship winner, recipient of an NEA creative writing fellowship in poetry and mentor to a generation of young poets through Wyoming's Young Writers Camp. Dainis also has an interest in music, tubas in particular:

Dear All:

Most of you already know that my brother and I commissioned a "litttle requiem" in memory of our mother Brigita Hazners. The world premier of "Bridge" was performed two years ago at the Wyo Theater in Sheridan.

This coming Sunday, November 22, it will be performed again, live on Wisconsin Public Radio at 12:30 p.m. (CST). "Sunday Afternoon at the Chatzen" is the program series name. You can tune in via the Internet by going to http://wpr.org and clicking on the button at top that says "Listen Live." It will put the broadcast into some sort of media player on the computer... Try this out now and have a listen to Wisconsin Public Radio.
 
"Bridge" is a fantastic piece of music composed by Michael Forbes, contemporary composer extraordinaire. Besides his many compositions he is also highly regarded as a performer, and is professor of music at the University of Wisconsin. "Bridge" is a piece written for tuba quartet and counter tenor. A very exciting piece of music (and substantial -- about 20 minutes long, in 3 movements), it is very contemporary in its various musical concerns, but also possesses lush harmonies and beautiful, memorable melodies. It is a challenging and rewarding piece in many ways. The brief text sung by the counter tenor is in Latvian, words that my mother wrote on the back of her last will and testament and also a couplet from a short Latvian folk song.


Sotto Voce Quartet, and counter tenor Lon Ellenberger, will be performing the piece.

An outstanding chamber ensemble, Sotto Voce Quartet plays a wide variety of music from Elizabethan Consort to Cutting Edge Contemporary (this Sunday!). They have played throughout the United States, have toured internationally, and have recorded several critically acclaimed CDs; several of its members have solo CDs as well (check the website below for more info). Its members include Demondrae Thurman and Mark Carlson on euphoniums; and Nat McIntosh and Michael Forbes on tubas. They are amazing! For more info about the group go to
www.tubaquartet.com .

Besides "Bridge," Sotto Voce Quartet will be premiering a new work by American trumpet player/composer Anthony Plog (now living in Germany) a piece titled "Fantasy Movements" written for tuba quartet.

Performance of these two works on the radio will be great exposure. In the audience there will be some 300 or so, then the radio audience will probably be in the 10's of thousands!!

Hope you can tune in,

Dainis

P.S.: For those unfamiliar with tubas... It's not what you might expect. The last 50 years have seen a great surge of interest in, and promotion of, the instrument. It is no longer relegated to oompahpahs from the back row, but has proven to be as capable of musical expession and virtuoso playing as the most accomplished violin or trumpet. Much new literature has been composed, and "Bridge" is considered an important addition.

Buy some great photos to help fund Dan Hayward's "Wyoming Project"

"Wispy Clouds over Elk Mountain," 24"x24", 2003

WAC roster artist and Laramie photographer Dan Hayward is working on a new statewide initiative, the Wyoming Project, that blends photography and environmental concerns. For details, go to his web site at http://www.haywardphoto.com/.

Here's info sent by Dan:

Just sending you a reminder that your opportunity to help me kick off the Wyoming Project and receive a sizable reduction in prices for my fine art photographs is fast approaching. To encourage broader support, I’m extending the down-payment deadline through the evening of November 29, the Sunday after Thanksgiving. This allows you to leisurely consider your art purchases through Thanksgiving.

I’m also planning a couple surprises for a warm-up event on Thursday evening, December 3. More info on that soon.

Here is a copy of the information on how to make your down payments.
 
PayPal will work using credit cards or checking accounts, whether you already have a PayPal account or not. Here's how to use PayPal for your down payment;
1. Go to the PayPal web site at www.paypal.com
2. Click "Send Money" near the top of the page just below the main set of tabs. The tabs are immediately below the word PayPal.
3. Enter my email address, dhayward@wyoming.com and then your email address.
4. Enter the payment amount and click any category under purchase tab.
5. If you already have an account, log in to PayPal and type in the required information then click continue/submit.
If you do not have an account, type in the required information, click agree, and then click continue/submit.
6. Review the payment details and click "Continue."
7. Review the details of the payment including the Payment Method. Click "Change" to make any edits.
8. Click "Send Money" to complete the transaction.
 
If you want to pay by check, you can send your down payments via the postal service or hand deliver them. Give me a call if you want to bring it to my home or studio. Please make your checks to Hayward Photography, And mail your down payments to:
Hayward Photography
1454 North 7th Street
Laramie Wy 82072

If you have any questions, please give me a call at 307-742-6307.

Funding opportunity for historic architecture

The State Historic Preservation Office announces this:

Next application deadline for Wyoming's Historic Architecture Assistance Fund (HAAF) is January 15, 2010. Learn more at www.wyoshpo.org

Keep an eye out for Zach Even's art

Lander artist and outdoorsman Zach Even has a new web site at www.zachevenart.com. Check it out!

Greenhorse on the road in Wyoming

Greenhorse, an electro-pop music duo whose members met in Wyoming, will perform on Thursday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m., at UW in Laramie. They'll be on stage with Speakeasy Tiger.

Other Wyoming stops in the near future include:

Nov 27, 5 p.m., Christmas Stroll at the 2nd Chance in Sheridan
Nov 28 8 p.m., The Wonder Bar, Casper
Dec 26, 8:30 p.m., American Legion Post 7, Sheridan
Mar 26, 8 p.m., WYO Theater, Sheridan

About Greenhorse: Chris Hackman and Shawn Day are two bassists who met in Wyoming. Following a transatlantic collaboration, while Shawn was living in London and Chris was living in L.A., they formed the electro-pop duo Greenhorse. The band self-released their first EP "Transcontinental" in the autumn of 2009. Greenhorse uses analog synths and wooden guitars to write their songs.

To listen: http://www.myspace.com/greenhorsemusic

"Riding the White Horse Home" -- from the written page to the CD

Grady Kirkpatrick on KUWR's "New Music Wednesday" featured a song with a familiar-sounding name. It was "Riding the White Horse Home," written and performed by Salt Lake City musician Kate MacLeod. Wondered if it was based on the fantastic memoir of the same name by Laramie County, Wyoming, native Teresa Jordan (now in SLC). Grady noted on-air that indeed this was the case. But wyomingarts needed more info so looked up Kate MacLeod, which is the kind of stuff the Internet is for. We found this:

The song Riding the White Horse Home is based on the book by the same name. It is a memoir about rural family life in Wyoming, written by artist and author Teresa Jordan.

The song is on MacLeod's new CD, Blooming. Another amazing fact: the cover art was done by Denver artist William Matthews who also illustrated the first edition of Close Range: Wyoming Stories by Annie Proulx, back when she lived in Wyoming.

What would we do without real books by real writers?

Survey to map Arts & Social Change Initiative

This comes from Americans for the Arts:
 
On December 1, Animating Democracy will launch an online survey as part of the Arts & Social Change Mapping Initiative.

The survey seeks to obtain a current portrait of public- and private-sector funding available from arts, social change, and other funders for arts that foster civic engagement and social change. This survey will increase understanding of funding resources, opportunities, and challenges for this arena of work. The initiative and survey are supported by The Nathan Cummings Foundation, Open Society Institute, CrossCurrents Foundation, and Lambent Foundation.

Animating Democracy invites participation by agencies and individuals who are supporting arts and cultural strategies to make change, whether their emphasis is civic engagement, community building, community development, community organizing, social change, social justice, participatory democracy, or other goals. To gain a full picture, we also urge those thinking about or moving toward supporting this kind of work to complete the survey.

Findings from the survey, funder interviews, and focus groups will be reported in an Arts for Change Funders report. An online database of funders will be available as a resource to inform funders' grantmaking and to facilitate peer exchange, referrals, and strategic collaboration among funders. The database will also be a resource for artists, community organizers, and cultural organizations.

Deadline for completing the survey is December 18, 2009.

Funders who would like to participate in the survey should request the Funder Survey and send an e-mail with contact information to surveys@artsusa.org

Survey: www.AmericansForTheArts.org/animatingdemocracy/programs/programs_002.asp#mapping

Vote now for "Modern Day Mountain Man"

Wyoming Arts Council roster artist Bryan Ragsdale of Green River sends this request:

"Modern Day Mountain Man" has been nominated for Country Song of the Year by the Independent Singer Songwriters Association. It is a huge honor and I need you help. Starting tomorrow you can go to http://www.issa-music.org/ to vote for "Mountain Man" or the song of your choosing. Please pass this on to all your friends, family, folks you don't know. Help me put the Rocky Mountains back into mainstream music. Blog it, post it...any help would be greatly appreciated! Voting deadline is Nov. 30.
To bring Bryan to your community via a WAC grant, go to http://www.wyomingartscouncil.org/ and clicks on "Grants" on the left sidebar.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

WAC roster artist in Georgia as movie extra

One of the Wyoming Arts Council's roster artists, "V, a.k.a. The Gypsy Cowbelle, continues on her ever-growing journey entertaining audiences with her authentic "Cowbilly" music. Having missed her when she entertained here in Cheyenne last weekend at the Old West Museum for their annual Traditions Art Show and Folk Art Festival, I called her to find out what was going on. She called back from Savannah, GA, where she will be living for the next couple of months as an extra on the new Robert Redford-directed movie. She'll be back through these parts in January when she's scheduled to perform in Arvada at the cowboy gathering there, and in Elko later.

The publishing mire

Here's an interesting article to read about the future of the publishing world.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/meet-publishers-enemy-no-1-cory-doctorow/article1362457/

Mad Dog & The Pilgrim a wayside stop for book-loving travelers

Rone Tempest writes about the latest wyofile story. This one is about Mad Dog & Pilgrim Bookstore, every Wyoming reader's favorite stop between Jeffrey City and Lander.

From Rone:

It is probably the last place on earth that you would expect to find a really fine used bookstore. Sweetwater Station, population plus-or-minus 5, is the next closest thing to a ghost town. It's 40 miles to the nearest gas station. Moose outnumber people there. But behind a simple wooden sign that says "Old Books, Fresh Eggs," is Mad Dog and The Pilgrim Booksellers. In the first in a series of stories about special Wyoming places, WyoFile profiles Lynda "Mad Dog" German and Polly "The Pilgrim" Hinds and their remarkable antiquarian bookshop that counts Buckingham Palace among its customers Illustrated with a slide show photo album by WyoFile award-winning photographer Brad Christensen.


Brad is a member of the Wyoming Arts Council's Artist Image Registry. For more about him and his work, go to http://www.bradchristensen.com/

Monday, November 16, 2009

Laramie's KEAG Gallery may close at end of '09

This is bad news.

Sarah Ramsey sent this e-mail notice:

Hello All:

I would like to say thank you to all who supported KEAG Gallery. It was my intent to develop a 'space' to promote local arts and fair trade. In the last year-and-a-half, we have featured more than two-dozen local and regional artists, raised almost $1,000 for non-profits, and supported high school arts. It has been a good time and hopefully an experience that benefitted the community and artists.


At this point, I am preparing to close KEAG due to changes in my life. If individuals are interested in a cooperative/'time share' please let me know by December 4. Otherwise, we will celebrate great art until the end of December, and then close doors.


On November 20, we will have an opening reception for two Laramie artists, Dona Fleming and Ray Jordan. Hope to see you then, Sarah

Where in the world is Wyoming?

Kenneth Foote will present the keynote address for Geography Awareness Week Thursday, Nov. 19, at 3:30 p.m. in Room 133 of the University of Wyoming Classroom Building in Laramie.

Foote, professor of geography at the University of Colorado, Boulder, will discuss "European Memory: Conflicts and Commemorations Across and Beyond Borders." Foote has written seven books and dozens of other publications, and received the J.B. Jackson Prize from the Association of American Geographers.

Other events for Geography Awareness Week include a Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center (WyGISC) open house Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 1 p.m. on the third floor of the College of Agriculture building and a student geography bowl Thursday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. in the Wyoming Union Gardens.

Congress considers Artist-Museum Partnership Act legislation

Some interesting news for museums and artists (source: online newsletter of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies):

The Artist-Museum Partnership Act is pending consideration in the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. The legislation would amend the Internal Revenue Code to improve the ability of museums to collect works by living American artists, with the incentive of extending to artists the right to deduct the fair-market value of gifts of their own work that they donate to museums, libraries and other collecting institutions. The charitable deduction enjoyed by collectors of artwork has been denied to artists since 1969. Currently, only the costs of the materials—canvas, paint, paper and such—may be deducted by artists when donating their own works.

The two bills—introduced in the House (H.R. 1126) by Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) and Rep. Todd Platts (R-PA), and in the Senate (S. 405) by Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Sen. Robert Bennett (R-UT)—are collecting cosponsors in advance of consideration by the two tax-writing committees.

"Christmas on the High Plains" just over the border in Spearfish Nov. 19

Cowboypoetry.com is (not surprisingly) a great site for regional events featuring cowboy poets and musicians. Today, the site is promoting an event in Spearfish, S.D., which is not technically in Wyoming but close enough to Crook and Weston and Niobrara counties to hear the twang of the performers' voices.

Here's the info:

The popular Heritage of the American West Performance Series in Spearfish, South Dakota, is returning to the High Plains Western Heritage Center under new direction.

The original monthly show was started by Kay Jorgensen and Jim Thompson (Live! with Jim Thompson) of Creative Broadcast Services and ran for ten years, with its final show in August, 2009. Francie Ganje — the director of the shows under CBSI — has worked, with others, to continue the series.

A November 19 show, "Christmas on the High Plains," features the Cambria String Band. A pre-show exhibit and reception hosts well-known regional authors, artists, and photographers, including Mick Harrison, whose painting, "A Christmas Tale," is the show's poster and theme (the painting was a 2005 Art Spur subject); Custer author and Black Hills historian Paul Horsted with his newest book, Crossing The Plains With Custer, and cowboy and landscape photographer Les Voorhis.

A December show, with details to be announced, will feature South Dakota poet Ken Cook and Montana singer, songwriter, and poet Bob Petermann.

Find details at the High Plains Western Heritage Center web site and read about the new Heritage of the American West and find show details in our feature here.

Record an interview for StoryCorps' National Day of Listening on Nov. 27

This comes from Wyoming Public Radio:

Wyoming Public Radio encourages listeners to record an interview with a loved one for StoryCorps’ second annual National Day of Listening on November 27, 2009.

On the day after Thanksgiving, November 27, 2009, Wyoming Public Radio and StoryCorps are asking all Americans to start a new holiday tradition: Set aside one hour to interview a friend, a loved one, or someone in their community about his or her life.

The process is simple: select an interview partner, create a question list, and sit down to record a meaningful conversation. StoryCorps has created a free Do-It-Yourself (DIY) interview guide with step-by-step interview instructions, equipment recommendations, and sample questions available online at nationaldayoflistening.org.

Sponsored by Corporation for National & Community Service, American Library Association, National Public Radio and Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Opportunities for art students via AmeriCorps

From a UW press release:

AmeriCorps is helping to connect University of Wyoming students to their communities through Scholarships for Service positions.

Students can receive a $1,000-$1,250 education award and college credit by completing internships, students teaching roles, clinical hours or a practicum.

Applications and more information are available on the UW Center for Volunteer Service Scholarships for Service Web page at www.uwyo.edu/uwvolunteers/info.asp?p=4813 , or by e-mailing Nellie Simon at nsimon@uwyo.edu. Applications for the spring and summer are due Nov. 20.

AmeriCorps is one of the programs in the Corporation for National & Community Service.

Note to UW students in fine arts, creative writing and theatre/dance: The Wyoming Arts Council in Cheyenne is always on the lookout for interns. The positions are unpaid, but we've worked with faculty at UW and LCCC to provide course credit for internships. All the better if you can also get paid for your time through AmeriCorps. E-mail Mike Shay or call 307-777-5234.

Friday, November 13, 2009

French pianist performs with UW Symphony

From a UW press release:

The University of Wyoming Symphony Orchestra (UWSO), joined by French pianist Lise de la Salle, will perform Thursday, Nov. 19, at 7:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center concert hall.

Tickets cost $10 for the public, $7 for senior citizens and $6 for students. Tickets are available at the Fine Arts Center and Wyoming Union box offices, on the Internet at www.uwyo.edu/finearts or by caling (307) 766-6666.

The 21-year-old de la Salle, fresh off performing with the Boston Symphony, has emerged as one of the most acclaimed artists of her generation, praised for inspired performances of virtuosity and depth. Her 2009-10 season also includes a performance with the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

In addition to playing the Saint-Saens "2nd Piano Concerto" with de la Salle, the UWSO will perform Bruce Roter's "Camp David Overture" and sections from the ballet "Spartacus."

The UWSO is led by Michael Griffith, in his 21st year as the group's conductor.

Cheyenne Civic Center Upcoming Events



Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker
December 6, 3:00 p.m.
Classical Dance,Holiday,PerformanceThis is a traditional holiday spectacular featuring Russian artists including gold medalists from international competitions. The Moscow Ballet brings to their annual United States tour the original creation of the 'Great Russian Nutcracker,' full of energy, beauty and the kind of athleticism only the Russians can demonstrate.www.nutcracker.com/

St. Mary's Bishop Ordination
December 9, 2:00 p.m.

LCCC Gala
December 11, 7:30 p.m.

Christmas Choral Festival
December 13, 7: 30 p.m.

Purchase "YOUR" Tickets: 307-637-6363
Visit our Box Office: 10-5 p.m. M-F 510 West 20th

Nic Art Show & Sale keeps on giving

After the Wyoming Arts Council board meeting wrapped up on Thursday, Marirose Morris and I sauntered over to the Nicolaysen Art Museum's annual art show and sale. The museum was packed with booths featuring the work of artists from near (Casper) and far (Oklahoma City). Some great holiday shopping on tap. Check out Linda Johnson's tulip prints, Jennifer Greenup's baskets featuring "recycled reconstructed goods," ceramics from Marianne Vinich's Yellow Bird Studios in Lander (look for the stylized angels), Ty A. Kelly's color-splashed paintings, Marilyn Robertson from Douglas and her funky purses, Jill Hartley's southwestern Wyoming landscapes and Dori Pratt's jewelry.

If you're kicking yourself for not getting to the Nic on Thursday's opening night, never fear -- the show continues today until 8 p.m. ($5 admission) and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday ($5). While there, you might visit the Nic's "I Want Candy" exhibit in the main gallery and the exhibit of work from the museum's permanent collection in the back galleries. It was great to revisit some of the fine work by the late Tom West. Check out the new painting donation by WAC board chair Bruce Richardson of Casper.

Get more info at the Nic's web site at http://www.thenic.org

--Mike Shay

Negro League's Mack Pride visits Casper as part of library's baseball exhibit

"Pride and Passion: The African-American Baseball Experience" will be at Natrona County Public Library in downtown Casper through Jan. 15. It's open to the public during regular library hours.

Mack Pride, one-time pitcher for the Kansas City Monarchs and Memphis Red Sox, came to Casper Thursday at the opening of the traveling exhibit which chronicles African-American participation in baseball from the Civil War era through integration and into modern times.

The exhibit is co-sponsored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., and the American Library Association. The Casper exhibit is funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

The dramatic re-enactment of Jackie Robinson's Life will be resented at the library on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 6:30 p.m., by actor Gregory Gibson Kenney.

FMI: http://www.natronacountylibrary.org/

Native American Heritage Fest in Cheyenne

From a press release:

The American Indian Heritage Day Celebration will honor and recognize the past and present contributors of the Northern Plains Tribes to the State of Wyoming through lecture, art crafts and performance. This free to the public one-day celebration will be from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, Nov. 14 in the lobby of the Cheyenne Depot at 121 West 15th Street, downtown Cheyenne. The Cheyenne Depot Museum and the Southeast Wyoming Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow Association are co-hosting this event.

The American Indian Heritage Day Celebration will feature the performances and presentations of master artisans, representing several Northern Plains’ tribes. The traditional art forms will be demonstrated for the community and community will participate in the demonstrations. The celebration will include an opening prayer and the posting of colors by the Arthur Antelope-Brown Post #84 and an address by Dorothy FireCloud, who is the Superintendent of the Devils Tower National Monument. The program will also include the following presentations and performances: Flute performance by Johnny Oberly, Eastern Shoshone; Storytelling by Merle Haas, Northern Arapaho; Hand Drums by Sonny Shoyo, Eastern Shoshone; and a Pow Wow Dance performance by the Wind River Dancers accompanied by the Wind River Drum Group. Marirose Morris, Oglala Lakota Sioux, and Leslie Kedelty, Dine, will close the ceremony.


A Children Activities Area will have storytelling by Merle Haas and a book reading by Ron Howard. The movies – Bambi & Dreamkeepers – in the Northern Arapaho version will be shown.

Vendors will also be serving authentic Indian Tacos and offering crafts and specialty items. A demonstration area will be provided with Reba Jo Teran doing Shoshone Bead Work.

It should be noted that there has not been statewide recognition or events to commemorate November as National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month especially in Cheyenne, the state capital. This event will precipitate an awareness of the native peoples' rich culture, traditions and livelihood and contributions to the state's folkloric heritage and history.

The American Indian Heritage Day Celebration is also supported in part by a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council, through funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Wyoming State Legislature. This event is also sponsored by Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund, Cheyenne Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Crow Creek Publishing, Wyoming Travel & Tourism and the Wind River Casino.

FMI: 307-632-3905

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Call for Nominations - Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame

The Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame showcases individuals, livestock and organizations whose distinctive contributions to Cheyenne Frontier Days have helped grow one man's dream into "The Daddy of 'em All." ®
Whether contestants, contract personnel, entertainers, livestock, organizations, families or volunteers, those voted into the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame represent the wonderful competitive and cooperative spirit that has remained the hallmark of Cheyenne Frontier Days since 1897. Members of the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum at the Associate Level (and above) vote for each class of the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame.
Deadline for nominations for the Class of 2010 is December 31, 2009. Nomination forms are available online at www.oldwestmuseum.org While nominations to the CFD Hall of Fame are open to the public, only members of the CFD Old West Museum at the Associate Level or above will be eligible to vote when the ballots for the Class of 2010 are mailed in March.

For more information on becoming a voting member or for more information about the CFD Hall of Fame, please visit www.oldwestmuseum.org or call 307-778-7290

15th annual OUT of the WOODS silent art auction

November 20th 6-8 p.m.
Center for the Arts Theater Lobby
265S. Cache Street, Jackson, WY

This is one of Jackson's best one night events. Join the Art Association for an evening filled with fabulous art, food and wine, all generously donated to benefit Art Association Programming. Do not miss the opportunity to 'steal' a masterpiece from the one hundred or so artists who participate in this annual fundraiser. Christmas is just around the corner!

www.artassociation.org

GRAND TETON MUSIC FESTIVAL’S STRINGFEST SHOWCASES LOCAL STUDENTS



10th Annual StringFest runs November 10-12, 2009
Jackson Hole, Wyoming – November 6, 2009 – By Thursday next week, the middle school orchestra students of Star Valley and Jackson Hole Middle Schools will be putting the final touches on their culminating concert of the 10th Annual StringFest, an education program of the Grand Teton Music Festival. Each year, this unique clinic connects 80young musicians with Festival violinist Barbara Scowcroft for three days of intense collaborative rehearsals and workshops to get ready for their public performance on the Festival’s concert stage. The concert is free and open to all ages, no tickets are required, and it takes place Thursday, November 12 at 7PM in Walk Festival Hall.

During this 10th year of StringFest, the Festival’s Director of Artistic Operations, Liz Kintz looks back on the success of the program: “More than 800 local string students have participated in the program and have had the opportunity to learn from Barbara Scowcroft.”Kintz continued, “Barb has an intuitive ability to direct students not only with strength and intensity, but with compassion and patience. Each year I watch Barb at work and see the difference she is able to make with the kids in such a short period of time. It's remarkable.”

StringFest kicks off the Grand Teton Music Festival’s in-school education programs each year – the students of Jackson Hole Middle School and Star Valley Junior High School start working on their music for StringFest as soon as the school year begins. Barbara Scowcroft,who is also a Utah Symphony violinist and director of the Utah Youth Symphony, will visit Grand Teton Music Festival, StringFest 2009the seventh and eighth grade orchestra classes of Vincent Gutwein (Jackson) and James Aribzu (Star Valley) November 10 and 11 to work with each group separately before they join forces for an all-day rehearsal followed by their combined performance in Walk Festival Hall on Thursday, November 12. StringFest 2009 follows on the heels of the Wyoming State String Clinic, an intensive orchestra experience for high school students that just took place in Jackson Hole on November 2 and 3.

The Grand Teton Music Festival is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose annual music education and outreach programs - from a child’s first experience with a live performance, to advanced instruction for music students and continuing education for adult learners - reach more than 12,000 young students, musicians, and adults each year.

Contact: Amanda Flosbach, Director of Marketing
307-733-3050 x107 amanda@gtmf.org

Monday, November 9, 2009

Lots of "creative energy" at AVA Center

Great article in Sunday's Casper Star-Tribune about the wide range of activities offered at the AVA Center in Gillette. The article, "Creative energy -- AVA Center offers artistic outlet for everyone from toddlers to seniors," was written by Star-Trib correspondent Kim Phagan-Hansel. The read the article, go to http://tinyurl.com/ydlgjht. To check out the AVA Center's class offerings, exhibits and events, go to the organization's nifty new web site at http://www.avacenter.org

Barry Lopez at Teton County Library Dec. 3

From the Teton County Public Library in Jackson:

Meet the man named "the nation's premiere nature writer" when the Teton County Library and Library Foundation present "Page to the Podium: Barry Lopez" on Thursday, December 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Center Theater, Center for the Arts.

Free tickets are required and can be picked up with the presentation of a Teton County library card or card number beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday, November 16 at the library. The evening is free and open to the community with support from donations, large and small, to the Teton County Library Foundation.

When O, The Oprah Magazine decided to publish a special section on the greening of American society in April 2009, the editors asked Barry Lopez to write an introduction. In the piece entitled "Call from the Future," Lopez addressed his environmental and humanitarian concerns: "Instead of the numbing rhetoric of 'us' and 'them,' we will have to invent a new kind of 'we.' It's the 'we' already welling up in many of us, born out of empathy, out of genuine love for each other and the Earth, and out of sober assessments about our predicament." (Read the article at http://bit.ly/13lYHe.)

"What impresses me most about Barry is that when you read his writing or hear him speak you can feel how much he cares about people and how strongly he believes that we can meet current social and environmental challenges -- really any challenge -- through empathy, tolerance and imagination. He doesn't just write about observing nature and nurturing relationships -- it's
what he does on a day-to-day basis," said Pauline Towers-Dykeman, the Associate Library Foundation Director who secured Lopez's presentation.

Lopez is best known as the author of Arctic Dreams, for which he received the National Book Award and, Of Wolves and Men, a National Book Award finalist for which he received the John Burroughs and Christopher medals. He has penned eight works of fiction, including Light Action in the Caribbean, Field Notes, and Resistance. His essays are collected in two books, Crossing
Open Ground
and About This Life. He contributes regularly to Granta, The Georgia Review, Orion, Outside, The Paris Review, Manoa and other publications in the United States and abroad. More about Lopez's work and links to recent articles can be found at www.BarryLopez.com/works.htm.

Lopez, who was active as a landscape photographer prior to 1981, maintains close ties and collaborations with a diverse community of artists. In addition to his stunning literary career, he has traveled to more than 60 countries and worked on international humanitarian projects with Mercy Corps and Quest for Global Healing.

Lopez is also the recipient of the Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the John Hay Medal, Guggenheim, Lannan, and National Science Foundation fellowships, Pushcart Prizes in fiction and nonfiction, and other honors. In 2004 he was elected a Fellow of The Explorers Club.

FMI: Contact Pauline Towers-Dykeman, 733-2164 ext. 217.

Artists attend biennial opening reception

Four of the six artists featured in the Wyoming Arts Council's Biennial Fellowship Exhibition at the State Museum attended the opening reception Nov. 5 in Cheyenne. Pictured (left to right) are Matt Flint, Lander; Leah Hardy, Laramie; Lawrence Argent, fellowship judge, Denver; Florence Alfano McEwin, Green River; and Ricki Klages, Laramie. (Not pictured: David Henderson, Worland and Doug Russell, Laramie.) The exhibit continues through Jan. 9 at the State Museum. Photo by Richard Collier.

Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes perform in UW Union Ballroom Nov. 11

From a UW press release:

New Orleans band Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes will perform a free concert Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 8 p.m. in the University of Wyoming Union ballroom in Laramie.

Offbeat magazine selected the funk/rock style band's debut album, "Bandicoot," as the "2003 Best Rock Album by a Louisiana Artist." Other awards include "Best Emerging Roots Rock Band" and "The Big Easy Entertainment Award." Their other albums are "Live at the Spleaf," "Pain, Pleasure, Fear and Opera," and their latest release, "The Big Awesome."

"Their music has energy that fuels a crowd to get up and dance," says Stephanie Meyer of the Student Activities Council that sponsors the concert.

For more information, call the Campus Activities Office at (307) 766-6340.

Photo: New Orleans band Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes

Random Acts of...Life

The Creative Arts Center at Ark Regional Services presents Random Acts of...Life, November 18-21 at 7:30 p.m., 1174 N. 4th Street, Laramie, WY.

To reserve tickets call 307-742-6641, ext 333 or email tickets@arkregionalservices.org.

What idea's next?

Here's some inspiration for all those writer-blocked writers out there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub6K6QFSBis&feature=player_embedded

Friday, November 6, 2009

Traditions Art Show & Folk Festival - Old West Museum

Opening Reception: Friday November 6, 2009
5:30 to 8 p.m.-$6.00
Free Folk Festival: Saturday & Sunday November 7-8, 2009
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Join us for the 4th Annual Traditions Art Show and Sale at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a celebration of western folk life and fine western art demonstrated through arts, crafts and traditions learned by centuries of living off the land in the American West.
Shop beautiful hand crafted jewelry, Native American Artwork, weavings, saddle blankets, leatherwork, basketry, pottery, fiber art, clothing and much more! Watch live demonstrations, listen to performers, storytellers and sample savory delights in a cafe setting!

Opening Reception is Friday November 6th, 2009, from 5:30p.m. to 8:00 p.m. There will be live music, hors’ de oeuvres and admission is just $6.00 for this great event.Join us for the FREE Folk Art Festival, Saturday November 7th and Sunday November 8th from 10:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m. The Traditions Art Show will be on display through January 3, 2010. For more information please call 307-778-7290.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Cheyenne's Georgia Rowswell in Denver show

Opening reception is Friday, Nov. 6, 5-9 p.m.

Fellowship exhibit opens Nov. 5


Lander's Matt Flint paints the "rhythms of the natural world"

Places I've Never Been, Matt Flint, oil, alkyd and pencil on canvas, 35"x29"

Matt Flint of Lander is one of the six Wyoming artists featured at the Wyoming Arts Council Biennial Fellowship Exhibit at the State Museum Nov. 5-Jan. 9. Come meet Leah and the rest of the artists at the museum's opening reception on Thursday, Nov. 5, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Here's more about Matt:

Artist Statement – Matt Flint

My paintings are about the rhythms of the natural world. Ideas of memory, fragility, and interconnectedness traverse the work. The imagery I use consists of glyphs, semi-abstracted plants, animals, and figures that inhabit an atmospheric “landscape” divided by simple geometric shapes.

Earthy colors, repeated patterns, and marks intermingle with hidden images to form layers of meaning. Rich textures, scratched and weathered surfaces, and subtle light qualities come from months of intuitively working and reworking the surfaces. No preliminary sketches are made; every thought is worked out directly on the piece, forming a roadmap of the creative process.

The resulting work is an encouragement to slow down and listen to our surroundings.

Tom Rea speaks about "Martin's Cove Controversy" in Rawlins Nov. 10

"The Martin's Cove Controversy: Public Land, Sacred Land," featuring author Tom Rea (pictured above), will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 7 p.m., at the Carbon County Education Center, Rawlins. This event is free and open to the public. It's part of the award-winning "Power of Place" series. FMI: Dave Throgmorton, 307-328-9204

Here's a description:

Bad weather, bad planning and their own zeal killed about 150 members of the Martin Handcart Company as they trekked across Wyoming in 1856. Today, the spot on the Oregon trail near Devil’s Gate where some of these Mormon pioneers died lies on BLM land--and at the center of controversy over religious freedom and the right of public access. Tom Rea explores the history of Martin’s Cove, using historical and contemporary photographs, and describes its later transformation into “holy ground” for the LDS Church. His presentation raises questions about who owns the past and how we preserve a balance between public and religious rights.

Tom Rea grew up in Pittsburgh, Pa., and has lived in Wyoming for 35 years. He holds degrees from Williams College and the University of Montana, and worked for many years as a reporter and editor on the Casper Star-Tribune. His books include Devil’s Gate: Owning the Land, Owning the Story (Oklahoma, 2006), winner of the 2006-07 nonfiction book award from the Wyoming State Historical Society, and Bone Wars: The Excavation and Celebrity of Andrew Carnegie’s Dinosaur, (Pittsburgh, 2001, paperback 2004) winner of the Western Writers of America Spur Award for contemporary nonfiction. He lives with his family in Casper.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Clay Paper Scissors Gallery Reception 11/6

Clay Paper Scissors Gallery & Studio: Reception upcoming! Wyoming Views artist reception, Friday, Nov. 6, 6-8 p.m., in downtown Cheyenne. This show features four Laramie artists: Joe Arnold, Wendy Bredehoft, Linda Lillegraven and Susan Moldenhauer. Through paint, photography and pastels, these artists offer four very different yet congruent takes on the Wyoming landscape.

"Listen" to Leah Hardy and her visual diaries

Listen; copper, earthenware, encaustic, mica, teeth, resin; 10.5”x14”x8”

Leah Hardy of Laramie is one of the six Wyoming artists featured at the Wyoming Arts Council Biennial Fellowship Exhibit at the State Museum Nov. 5-Jan. 9. Come meet Leah and the rest of the artists at the museum's opening reception on Thursday, Nov. 5, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Here's more about Leah:

Artist Statement -- Leah Hardy

Childhood labors of love include making shoebox dioramas, assembling insect collections and creating secret spaces. These innate endeavors have greatly inspired my work as an adult.

My sculpture is a visual diary for commentary on daily occurrences, dreams, travels and human interaction – where I try to make sense of the world and its mysterious events in a poetic, distilled narrative manner.

Fragments of the human body, flora and everyday objects are integrated into surreal shrine-like settings to memorialize strange – and wonderful – life experiences. I utilize a rich array of color through material choices (copper, silver, earthenware, etc.) and various surface treatments such as patinas, encaustic, glaze and inks to evoke emotion, create focal points and visual tension or harmony to best express the intention of each piece.