Capitol Christmas Tree Project Hosts State–wide Artist’s Competition

Every year since 1970, a Christmas tree has been presented to the United States Congress from a national forest and is known as “The People’s Tree.” This year, for the first time, the tree will be a gift from Wyoming.

In honor of this occasion, the Bridger‐Teton National Forest, Bobbi Brown Barrasso, and the Wyoming Arts Council will host a statewide, juried art exhibition to select an official artwork to represent the 2010 National Capitol Christmas Tree (CCT).

Traditionally, the official CCT artwork is presented to the Chief of the Forest Service and will hang in their office for one year. The artwork will ultimately be exhibited in “The Tree Gallery” adjacent to the Chief of the Forest Service’s office in the Yates Building, as part of the national permanent collection featuring previous CCT winners.

The theme this year is, “Wyoming‐Forever West.” Artists are encouraged to consider the theme to conceptualize the vision of a 65+ foot tall Wyoming Christmas Tree destined for the Nation’s Capitol.

Eligibility and Guidelines
1. Open to all Wyoming artists, at least 18 years of age.
2. Any medium may be used (including but not limited to: acrylics, oil, watercolor, textile, metals, photography, stained glass, etc.).
3. Finished artwork should be between 25‐35 inches high by 20‐30 inches wide.
4. Finished artwork may be framed or unframed, but must be designed to hang on a wall.
5. One time use: The winning artist must agree to convey to the U.S. Forest Service the right to reproduce the image in a one-time printing to be sold to fund this program.
6. Art work must meet guidelines or will not be considered.

How to Apply:
Deadline is Thursday, September 2, 2010. Artworks must be received by this date.
Submit a high quality digital image of artwork: jpg format /4×6 inches minimum/300dpi
Image file name: Last Name_First Name_Title.jpg
Digital image and entry form may be emailed to:
CapitolChristmasTree2010@gmail.com. Subject heading should read: “Christmas Tree Art”
‐or‐
CD with image and entry form may be mailed to:
Christmas Tree Art
PO Box 1888 Jackson, WY 83001

Review Process
A panel of jurors will review submissions and select artwork for the CCT. Exhibited artworks will be eligible for the following:
Awards of Distinction
"Wyoming-Forever West" selection will be displayed throughout Wyoming, traveling with the Christmas tree en route to Washington, D.C. Artwork will hang in the Office of the Chief of the Forest Service for one year and ultimately become part of the permanent collection at “The Tree Gallery” in Washington, D. C. Artist will be honored at CCT festivities in Wyoming during the month of November.

“Viewers’ Choice.” Viewers will be invited to vote in person or online for their favorite artwork on display. Artwork will be displayed throughout Wyoming traveling alongside the Capitol Christmas tree. Artwork will hang in Wyoming’s State Capitol, becoming part of the State of Wyoming’s permanent collection.

“Holiday Greeting Cards.” Images of the top 10 artworks will be reproduced on note or holiday cards and sold to raise funds for the project. Information about the artist will be printed on the back of the cards. Information about each artist will be printed on the back of the note cards, providing added recognition to the ten artists.

Along with the tree, 75-smaller trees will be provided for Congressional Offices, agencies & organizations headquartered throughout D.C., as well as 5000 handmade ornaments. The "Wyoming-Forever West" selection will be the official artistic impression for the project. It will also be displayed in Wyoming’s State Capitol.

FMI at http://www.capitolchristmastree2010.org/; e-mail CapitolChristmasTree2010@gmail.com; or call Kristi Wallin at 307-772-2451 to acknowledge your interest or if you have any questions.

Mary Cernicek mcernicek@fs.fed.us
U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree 2010 Coordinator

BBHC hosts new blog

Thanks to the federal grant funding agency Institute of Museum and Library Service (IMLS), the Buffalo Bill Historical Center's Conservation Department has launched an Internet blog titled "Connecting to Collections: Exploring the questions facing Wyoming's cultural institutions."

Conservator Beverly Perkins and Coordinator Laura Fry decided to start a blog as part of a statewide IMLS Planning grant for Connecting to Collections. Says Fry, "The blog is a follow-up to a series of five symposia Bev orchestrated last summer about disaster planning as it relates to museum collections care. The weekly blog continues that dialogue about the needs and questions facing Wyoming cultural institutions."

According to Fry, the blog creates a forum for asking questions, exploring online resources, and discussing techniques among Wyoming museum and library colleagues. Topics include disaster planning, collections funding opportunities, educating museum staff and board members, registration and numbering systems, digitizing collections, and any other issues faced by Wyoming cultural entities.

"We're also asking questions like, 'What works well in your institution?' or 'What program, system, department, facility, staff member, tool, etc. helps keep your institution running smoothly?'" Fry continues. "As we examine issues and needs, it's always a good idea to first touch on what's already working well!"

Fry plans a new blog post each week at http://wyomingcollections.wordpress.com/. Readers can comment, offer suggestions, get a list of relevant links, and sign up for updates.

For more information, contact Fry through the blog, by e-mail at lauraf@bbhc.org or by phone, 307-578-4053.

Discover "East of Yellowstone" with geologist and author Bob Carson

Geologist and professor Robert J. Carson has just written a new guidebook for northwest Wyoming titled East of Yellowstone. Recently published, the book covers geology of the Clarks Fork Valley, the nearby Beartooth Mountains and Absaroka Mountains, and the Bighorn Basin of Wyoming and Montana-all areas outside the eastern border of Yellowstone National Park.

On May 26, 11 a.m., Carson shares his work in a slide show and talk at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center's Coe Auditorium. The presentation is free to the public, and afterward, Carson autographs copies of his book at the Center's Museum Store where his book is for sale.

Covering some 166 miles in the region, Carson's book has five separate road logs to guide area visitors through the Beartooth Mountains and along the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway and adjoining roads to vistas of rugged mountains and scenic valleys. Of particular interest are the enigmatic Heart Mountain detachment, the Absaroka volcanic activity, and area Pleistocene glaciation. The book has seven geologic maps and ten topographic maps with trails outlined as well as an extraordinary collection of photographs.

Carson is the Grace Farnsworth Phillips Professor of Geology and Environmental Studies at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. He earned a BA in geology from Cornell University at Ithaca, New York; an MS from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, and a doctorate from the University of Washington.

His interests lie in the earth and environmental sciences, and he teaches courses that deal with resources and pollution, human interaction with the biosphere, glaciers, volcanoes, water, landforms, and natural hazards. A whitewater guide and a member of the American Alpine Club, he has led field trips in Africa, Eurasia, South America, and throughout North America. His other books include Where the Great River Bends and Hiking Guide to Washington Geology.

The Historical Center's Draper Museum of Natural History Curator Dr. Charles R. Preston calls the Carson book, "A robust and highly engaging portrait of the geological history and features of one of the most fascinating natural theaters in the world. This book will absolutely enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Greater Yellowstone region."

For additional information, contact Jennifer McDonald at jenniferm@bbhc.org or 307-578-4121

For general information, visit http://www.bbhc.org/ or call 307-587-4771.

May 20 final day for WWInc early bird rates

Thursday, May 20, is the final day to register for the 2010 Wyoming Writers, Inc., conference with early bird rates. The conference will be held June 4-6 in Cody.

The early bird rate is $155 per person for members and $170 for non-members. After May 20, that rate goes up to $175 and $200, respectively.

Join WWInc when you register and pay only the member rate for the conference!

The conference features workshops and presentations by Edgar and Spur Award-winning author Max McCoy; award-winning novelist and Wyoming Poet Laureate (1996-2002) Robert Roripaugh; Lee Ann Roripaugh, winner of the National Poetry Series Prize for her book "Beyond Heart Mountain;" literary agents Suzie Townsend of Fine Print Literary Management and Gordon Warnock of Andrea Hurst Literary Management; and UW/CC humanities professtor and Wyoming Arts Council board chair Bruce Richardson.

Find a printable registration form at the WWInc web site at http://www.wyowriters.org/

Spring into the Arts Festival in Cheyenne

Summer exhibits at Phoenix Gallery

The Phoenix Gallery, 11 Oak Ave. in Centennial, will feature the following exhibits through September:

May 28-June 20: "The Partnership: Wearable Woven Art with Their Photographic Inspirations," by Jeny and Mike Stoesz. Artists' reception is on Friday, May 28, 5-7 p.m.

June 25-July 25: "Bright Futures," a diverse collection of Laramie's NorthernFront artists. Champagne reception on Friday, June 25, 5-7 p.m.

Aug. 13-Sept. 6: "Images" by Charles Ferguson and Kent Keebler. Photography, graphics and history. Artists' reception on Friday, Aug. 13, 5-7 p.m.

Phoenix Gallery is located next to the Trading Post (look for the building with the turquoise trim). Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; other hours by appointment. FMI: 307-742-7731.

Festival Orchestra holds open auditions May 22 for vocalist

Grand Teton Music Festival announced today an open audition to choose a vocal soloist to sing the national anthem with the Festival Orchestra at the Festival’s annual outdoor 4th of July community concert, Music In The Hole.

All community members with a talent for singing are invited to audition. Open Auditions will be held Saturday, May 22 at 12:30 p.m. in Walk Festival Hall, Teton Village. Sign-in begins at 11:30 a.m., auditions will begin promptly at 12:30 and be finished by 2:30 p.m. No advance registration will be accepted. Audition participants are to enter through the backstage door to Walk Festival Hall, located on the North side of the building next to the Ticket Office.

Piano accompaniment, provided by Laura Huckin, will be provided to singers in the keys of F, Ab, and Bb – singers must be able to perform the song with accompaniment in one of these three keys. A cappella auditions will not be considered. Audition hopefuls will be expected to sing “The Star Spangled Banner” once before a panel of judges, and the auditions are open to public audience – friends and family of auditioning singers may attend.

The winner will perform “The Star Spangled Banner” with the Festival Orchestra under the direction of Music Director Donald Runnicles on Sunday, July 4, 2010 at Music In The Hole. This performance opens the Festival Orchestra’s portion of the concert, which will be a program of patriotic favorites selected by popular vote.

Music In The Hole is a community program of the Grand Teton Music Festival, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and is 100% funded by community support. This annual 4th of July concert is a favorite way to celebrate Independence Day in Jackson Hole and features local musicians, recreational activities by area non-profits, and good, old-fashioned family fun all afternoon on the 4th of July. More at www.gtmf.org.

Free public arts reception May 20 in Wheatland

Meet members of the Wyoming Arts Councill board and staff at a free reception for the Wheatland community on Thursday, May 20, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Linda and Joe Fabian’s Dance Wyoming studio, 861 Gilchrist in downtown Wheatland.

The reception is being held in conjunction with the Arts Council's May 20-21 quarterly board meeting at the Platte Valley Bank in Wheatland.

FMI: Call the WAC in Cheyenne at 777-7742.

May/June events for Screen Door Porch

05.19.10 . Fort Collins, CO . KRFC Live @ Lunch
Listen live online at krfcfm.org
12:00 pm . Note: On-Air Performance
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05.20.10 . Laramie, WY . Wyoming Public Radio
Listen live online at wyomingpublicradio.net
11:00 am . Note: On-Air Performance
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05.20.10 . Laramie, WY . Coal Creek Coffeehouse
8:00 pm . Ages: All Ages . Tickets: Free
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06.11.10 . Moose, WY . Dornan's
CD Release Party - Jackson!!
Tickets available at Valley Books & Dornan's
Portion of proceeds to benefit Habitat for Humanity
7:00 pm . Ages: All Ages . Tickets: $10
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06.17.10 . Idaho Falls, ID . Vino Rosso
7:30 pm . Ages: 21+ . Tickets: Free
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06.18.10 . Ketchum, ID . Papa Hemi's Hideaway
6:30 pm . Ages: 21+ . Tickets: Free
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06.19.10 . Missoula, MT . The Top Hat
8:00 pm . Ages: 21+ . Tickets: Free
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06.25.10 . Pinedale, WY . Rock Rabbit
8:00 pm . Ages: All Ages . Tickets: Free
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06.26.10 . Jackson, WY . Private Event
7:00 pm
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06.30.10 . Driggs, ID . Alpine Wines
7:00 pm . Ages: 21+ . Tickets: Free

FMI: http://www.screendoorporch.com/

Call for entries: Targhee Bluegrass Festival Poster Contest

The 23rd annual Targhee Bluegrass Festival announces a poster contest.

Enter by June 15, 2010. Winner will be announced June 16, 2010.

Loot:
Four weekend passes to 23rd Annual Targhee Bluegrass Festival
Two VIP/Backstage passes for the 23rd Annual Targhee Bluegrass Festival
Lodging August 13-15 in a Teton Creek Condominium
Framed poster signed by all artists at 23rd Annual Targhee Bluegrass Festival
Recognition during the festival (on stage)
General glory

Required Elements:
1.Grand Targhee Resort Logo
2.23rd Annual Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival: must be included in artwork (note: it is acceptable to also use “23rd Annual Bluegrass Festival” as the event titles if it is preceeded by the Grand Targhee Resort logo).
3.August 13 – 15, 2010: Event dates must be included in artwork
4.Names of Artists in Alphabetical Order (may include additional yet-to-be released artists). For the most up to date list click here.
5.Layout to be comprised using the following percentages:
Artwork: 65% of total 11 x 17 space
Artists: 25% of total 11 x 17 space
Space for logos and sponsors: 10% of total 11 x 17 space

Size:
Finished poster should be 11″ wide x 17″ tall OR 11” tall by 17” wide
Max file size for contest submission is 5MB. Submissions must be in either .gif or .jpg format. Actual artwork for poster production has no file size limits, and should be saved in an uncompresssed format. (Native Photoshop or Illustrator is ideal.) All vector and/or raster artwork MUST BE SUBMITTED with layers turned on. PLEASE DO NOT FLATTEN THE ORIGINAL .ai or .psd artwork.

Resolution:
Original artwork should be either vector-based (such as an Adobe Illustrator file) or at least 300dpi if a raster file (such as an Adobe Photoshop file).

Bleeds:
Poster should include a 1/4-inch bleed on all sides. (This means the actual artwork size will be 11.25″x17.25″)

Color:
Artwork should be CMYK.

Logo Usage:
The Grand Targhee Resort logo may be displayed in white or black only. Please do not stretch, twist, invert, or otherwise modify the Grand Targhee Resort logo.

Submissions:
Artwork should be submitted to: mhood@grandtarghee.com. If the file is too large to be submitted via email, please use WeTransfer. Please use “Bluegrass Poster Contest Submission” as your subject line in the email.

Questions:
All questions should be directed to: jurdi@grandtarghee.com

More info at http://www.grandtarghee.com/summer/music-festivals/index.php

WCH announces two new "Reading Wyoming" book discussion series

This comes from the latest edition of the Wyoming Humanities Council e-letter:

The Wyoming Humanities Council is pleased to announce two new Reading Wyoming book discussion series.

The first series, "Figureheads," consists of novels dealing with politics. Books include All the King's Men, by Robert Penn Warren; The Gay Place, by Billy Lee Brammer; Roscoe, by William Kennedy; and Primary Colors, by Anonymous.

The second series, "Icons," includes biographies and non-fiction accounts of iconic Americans. Books include Cash, by Johnny Cash; Jane Fonda's War, by Mary Hershberger; Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times, by Thomas Houser; Eleanor Roosevelt, Vol. 1: 1884-1933, by Blanche Wiesen Cook; and A Moveable Feast, by Ernest Hemingway.

Reading Wyoming, the Wyoming Humanities Council's book discussion program, is available to any non-profit organization or public agency in Wyoming. The program brings together community members and a humanities discussion leader to read and talk about good books. The sponsoring organization selects the Reading Wyoming series and chooses four titles to read. Discussion meetings take place during either the fall or spring with a group of 8 to 20 participants.The Wyoming Humanities Council provides publicity, multiple copies of the books and expenses for the discussion leader.

Contact Jenny Ingram, (307) 721-9247, for assistance in choosing series and discussion leaders.


Read More

Snowy Range Festival announces schedule

From a UW press release:

The University of Wyoming Department of Theatre and Dance presents an entertaining performance season with the 2010 Snowy Range Summer Theatre and Dance Festival during June and July.

Established in 2005, the combined festival is an outgrowth of UW's longstanding summer theatre program and its annual dance festival.

The 2010 festival offers three full-length plays: John Ford Noonan's quirky comedy, "A Coupla White Chicks Sitting Around Talking" (June 8-12); Richard Greenberg's award-winning seriocomedy, "Three Days of Rain" (June 22-26); and Noel Coward's classic comedy-of-manners, "Private Lives" (July 6-10).

The festival continues in late July with two dance concerts, the free "Dance Festival Student Showcase Concert" (July 21) and the "Dance Festival Gala Concert" (July 24).

All theatre performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Studio Theatre. Both dance performances will be held in the Arts and Sciences auditorium, with the Dance Festival Student Showcase Concert beginning at 7 p.m. and the Dance Festival Gala Concert beginning at 4 p.m. Tickets for theatre cost $10 for the public, $8 for senior citizens and $5 for students. Dance performance tickets cost $12 at the door or $10 pre-purchased.

For tickets and information call (307) 766-6666 or go online at www.uwyo.edu/finearts.

"We're excited to be able to offer another season of terrific dance and theatre to the community," says UW Theatre and Dance Assistant Professor John O'Hagan, who serves as artistic manager for the festival's theatre portion. "This year the festival continues its tradition of providing a healthy mix of student and professional work. We're very grateful to be able to continue to offer professional-quality summer theatre to our audiences and we hope that everyone enjoys the season."

Photo: Guest actor John Goodson will perform in "Three Days of Rain" June 22-26. (John Goodson)

Two new exhibits at BBHC in Cody

From a BBHC press release:

Barely catching her breath since last summer's grand re-opening of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center's Whitney Gallery of Western Art, Acting Curator Christine Brindza has added two new exhibits to the gallery.

"We know that some visitors miss having western artist Frederic Remington's pieces all in one place," Brindza explains. "We heard that message and created a unique exhibition of some of Remington's studies, a means by which nearly every artist experiments with light, detail, layout, characters, and the like. What's interesting is that some depict scenes in the Cody vicinity and will be familiar to those who know the area."

"Curator's Choice: The Art of Frederic Remington" features a selection of work from the last decade of Remington's career including some finished works and many studies that "reveal Remington's continuous artistic changes in style and technique," Brindza says. "Toward the end of his life, he experimented with painting nature's light in his work." The Remington exhibit is on display in the Center's mezzazine, the H. Peter and Jeannette Kriendler Gallery.

Brindza also orchestrated an exhibit titled "Brush, Palette, and Custer's Last Stand," featuring artists who depicted the Battle of Little Bighorn. "Variously called the Battle of Little Bighorn, the Battle of Greasy Grass, Custer's Last Stand, Custer's Last Fight, and several other names depending on cultural and historical perspective, the Battle of Little Bighorn remains shrouded in mystery," Brindza observes. "As early as two weeks after the battle, artists attempted to re-create the mysteries of the battle in newspaper illustrations and major-scale works on canvas.
"Some of these early artists served as historians, whether intentionally or not, revealing details of the battle in their work. Others merely created a work of art based on imagination.

Regardless, as the public saw these early images, their views of the battle were shaped by the artwork, and therefore, helped create myths and legends that resonate even today."

On display near the Frederic Remington Studio in the Whitney Gallery, the exhibit includes works by William de la Montagne Cary (1840-1922), John Mulvany (1844-1906), Cassilly Adams (1843-1921), Edgar S. Paxson (1852-1919), Allan Mardon (b. 1931), Earl Biss (1947-1998), and Fritz Scholder (1937-2005).

"The Historical Center has 14 sketches Paxson used for his mammoth painting Custer's Last Stand which he completed in 1899. We also have a photograph of Paxson working on this piece and a number of his painting tools like brushes, charcoal holders, and paint boxes," Brindza adds. "The Paxson and Mardon works are situated across from each other with computer kiosks for more study, and Earl Biss's General Custer in Blue and Green, 1996, is just around the corner."

Online visitors can zoom in on the Paxson painting at http://tinyurl.com/BBHC-Paxson

2010 Photography Invitational reception at AVA Center on May 28

The second annual Photography Invitational Artists' Reception will be held on Friday, May 28, 6-8 p.m. at the AVA Center in Gillette.

Meet the artists, vote for viewers choice, and find out who won best of show in both Adult and Student divisions.

Hope to see you there!

Learn More

Arts Council holds quarterly board meeting May 20-21 in Wheatland

Public invited to attend Wyoming Arts Council Board events May 20-21 in Wheatland

The Wyoming Arts Council will hold its quarterly board meeting in Wheatland May 20-21.

The meeting will be held at the Platte Valley Bank, 200 16th Street, Wheatland. Agenda items include the decisions on FY11 Grants to Organizations, Arts Education Biennial and Operating Support grants, review of WAC budgets, long-range planning, schedules for the next Governor’s Arts Awards, and advocacy issues.

The board invites individuals and organizational representatives to attend any part of the meeting to observe the board process, and to address the board during the public comment session beginning at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday. Comments about the agency's policies, funding priorities, on-line granting system, and other arts-related topics are welcomed. For a detailed agenda, please contact the Wyoming Arts Council office at 307-777-7742.

At the conclusion of Thursday’s session, a public reception for members of the community will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. at Linda and Joe Fabian’s Dance Wyoming studio, 861 Gilchrist in downtown Wheatland

The mission of the Wyoming Arts Council is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Wyoming by providing resources to sustain, promote and cultivate the arts.

FMI: Camellia El-Antably, WAC, 307-777-7742 or celant@state.wy.us.

Meet Pinedale's Sue Sommers, WAC visual arts fellowships honorable mention

Sue Sommers of Pinedale received an honorable mention in the 2010 Wyoming Arts Council visual arts fellowship competition.

Here's the artist's statement which accompanied her application:

This group of watercolor/gouache portraits was inspired by images from my family photo album. All of the children pictured would now be at least 50 years old. They are my family, myself, friends and classmates -- and I am looking back at them across time.

Children are very conscious of the adult gaze. In the photos, I see children looking back at adult authority. How they respond to the adult "in charge" will shape their entire lives, and says a lot about who they are or yearn to be. It will stay with them into adulthood.

The process of painting portraits from the photographs forces me to look closely and intimately at the expressions and body language of the children. Re-interpreting the image this way helps me bring out what I know is under the surface.

To view Sue's work, go to http://www.suesommers.com

Happenings at the Cheyenne Little Theatre

Bulletin about upcoming events by the Cheyenne Little Theatre Players:

Private Eyes” opened May 14 for 6 performances (May 16, 20 21, 22, 23), Mary Godfrey Playhouse. Click here for info. Tickets now on sale! Click here
2010 Summer Academy Details here! Click Here to Sign-up! Click Here for the Academy Newsletter
2010-2011 Season Memberships on Sale Now! Click Here to Purchase Online or Call the Box Office at (307) 638-6543.
2010 Old Fashioned Melodrama Tickets Now on Sale! Click here for tickets! Auditions May 25-26, 2010, 6:30 pm, Atlas Theatre.
Audition Notice for The Sound of Music (Click here)

Photography workshop at The Murie Ranch

Cynthia Norcorss Willson, the First Photographer-In-Residence at the Murie Center in 2006, will be conducting the workshop "Celebrating a Time and Place Captured in a Moment" from May 25-29, 2010 at the Murie Center.

The Workshop is opend to all who have an interest in connecting with nature through the artistry of camera.

Stay at the Murie Historic Landmark Ranch in The Grand Teton National Park, explore the Tetons during spring's Middle Full Moon, also knows as the Corn Planting Moon/Flower Moon. The full moon is at 4:30 p.m. on the May 27. Participants will have an opportunity to become familiar with the ranch and the park in the two days before and after.

Cost for the workshop is $559 for four nights' lodging in a Murie Ranch cabin, all meals during structured program time (some free time for exploration is built-in), and tuition. A non-lodging option is also available for $229, which includes meals and tuition only. Also included in the price is admission to the National Museum of Wildlife Art.

Space is limited. There are only 10 cabins. Yellowstone Park is still closed just prior to Memorial Day.

Cynthia Norcross Willson has 35 year experience with the U.S. Department of State, bringing diverse groups of people from around the world together. Join her for this opportunity to capture moments in an incomparable setting, celebrating the Murie Legacy and the majesty of Grand Teton National Park.

Wyoming Philanthropy Days June 16-18

Colorado Council on the Arts gets new name and mission on May 18

Wyomingarts found the link to this news release on the Colorado Council for the Arts twitter site:

You are cordially invited to join Gov. Ritter as he signs four bills that will strengthen Colorado's Creative Industries

Tuesday, May 18, 2010, 1-2:30 p.m., The Art Institute of Colorado, 1200 Lincoln Street in Denver

From 1 to 2 p.m. enjoy light refreshments, the Industrial Design students' gallery show and interactive student artwork in the fields of design, culinary arts, media arts and fashion.

At 2 p.m. Gov. Ritter will sign the bills and provide remarks. He will be joined by lawmakers and members of the creative industries.

The Governor will be signing these four Creative Industries bills:

SB 10-158, The creation of the Creative Industries Division within the Colorado Office of Economic Development - merges the Office of Film, Television and Media, the Colorado Council on the Arts, and the Art in Public Places Program, and renames the State Council on the Arts as the Council on Creative Industries and authorizes the Council to establish policies for the merged entity.

HB 10-1180, The Criteria to Qualify for a Performance-Based Incentive for Film Production Activities in Colorado - changes the criteria required of a film production company to qualify for a performance-based incentive for film production activities in Colorado, making the incentive more usable and thus able to attract more film and television work to Colorado.

SB 10-094, The Definition of Capitol Construction Appropriations for Purposes of the Art in Public Places Program - clarifies that the thirty-three year old Arts in Public Places Statute applies to all capitol construction projects funded with state dollars, regardless of the funding mechanism.

HB 1273, Arts Education for Workforce Development - strongly encourages all Colorado public schools to provide education in the visual and performing arts and directs the State Board of Education to recognize the importance of the arts in development of future graduation guidelines.

EDITOR'S NOTE: By way of comparison, the Wyoming Arts Council, an agency within the Division of State Parks and Cultural Resources, supervises the state's Art in Public Buildings program. It offers grants programs for organizations and individual artists, convenes an Arts Summit every two years and stages the annual Governor's Arts Awards. The Wyoming Film Office is in the Travel & Tourism Division of the Wyoming Business Council.

Bryan Ragsdale performs tonight at Buffalo Ridge in Cheyenne

This comes to us from WAC roster artist Bryan Ragsdale:

Just wanted to let you guys know that I playing tonight at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School in Cheyenne at 7 p.m. as a part of the all-kids Wyoming Christmas tree CD that is going with the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree to Washington, D.C. Buffalo Ridge is the eighth school we have done so far and we have seven more around the state. Come out, and be a part of the coolest project I have been a part of. It is free, and should be a great time.

For more about Bryan, go to www.bryanragsdale.com

You can apply for a WAC Arts Across Wyoming grant to bring Bryan to your community. More info on the WAC web site.

Deadline June 1, 2010, for Cinereach grants

A listing in the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) e-mail newsletter:

Cinereach, a not-for-profit film foundation that funds and produces independent, feature-length nonfiction and fiction films, is now accepting letters of inquiry and sample work for the Summer 2010 grant cycle. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000 per project and are awarded to films at any stage including development, production, and post-production. The granting priorities, guidelines, and online submission form can be found on the Cinereach website, along with detailed information on past recipients. Full proposals will be requested from select projects in July.

Call for proposals: "New Pathways for the Arts"

Earlier this year, EmcArts launched the New Pathways for the Arts Initiative, a program developed for local and regional communities which combines intensive innovation training for a small cohort of arts organizations with community-wide convenings around practices in innovation and adaptive capacity. "New Pathways" was designed to strengthen the ability of organizations to respond to change and to advance the development of new strategies that address well-defined opportunities and challenges facing local arts communities.

The first city in the country to adopt New Pathways was New Haven, CT, where the program is being led by the Arts Council of Greater New Haven, with 14 arts organizations taking part. Starting in June, Denver will be the second city to host New Pathways, supported by funding from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation.

I'm pleased to share news with you about a limited-time funding opportunity for agencies interested in bringing the New Pathways Initiative to organizations in their area. To encourage local funders in smaller cities, as well as regional funding consortia, to support organizational innovation in their communities, the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation has provided a competitive national matching fund available to communities to take part in the New Pathways Initiative. Matching funds, of up to one-third of the total program costs, will be awarded on a competitive basis to communities that commit to co-funding and hosting the program locally or regionally in 2010 or 2011.

The New Pathways Matching Fund is designed to serve arts organizations operating outside of major metropolitan areas (pop. 350,000-1 million or so) that wish to host the New Pathways program, but may find that they need leverage to gain support from local funders. Highly collaborative arts communities that are committed to developing new strategies for the arts sector are encouraged to apply. To learn more about the New Pathways Matching Fund, including eligibility requirements, we invite you to view the attached Guidelines for Letters of Interest. EmcArts will accept Letters of Interest from funders and arts agencies that want to apply for matching funds through July 9, 2010. We will respond to all Letters of Interest and arrange a telephone appointment to discuss the potential for a New Pathways program in greater depth with you, or with local or regional leaders.

FMI: EmcArts Inc., 212.362.8541 x28; REvans@EmcArts.org; http://www.emcarts.org/

Register now for Mountains-Plains Museums Association conference in Rapid City

Registration is now open for the Mountains-Plains Museums Association's annual conference September 13- 17 in Rapid City, S.D. Theme for this year is "Monumental Visions: Carving the Future for Museums."

REGISTER NOW TO GET THE CHEAPEST RATE NOW! Go to http://www.mpma.net/

* Premier educational/ networking event for leaders, volunteers, staff
* Tours of some really incredible museums, sites and galleries
* Sessions featuring new trends and solutions

Lots of workshops, tours and sessions offered

Workshops include:
1. Cleaning Museum Artifacts
2. Research Techniques
3. Your Vision - Your Exhibits
4. The Exhibition that Keeps on Giving
5. Carving the Future for Area Teachers
6. Interpretive Writing
7 Insurance 101: Protecting Your Collection
8. Can't you get a Volunteer to Help?
9. Inexpensive, Quick Custom-Made Mannequins

Tours:
1. Lincoln Tour: Northern Hills (Lead and Deadwood)
2. Roosevelt Tour - Northern Hills (Sturgis, Belle Fourche, Spearfish)
3. Washington Tour - Central Black Hills (Crazy Horse, Hill City,
Winery, Keystone)
4. Jefferson Tour - Southern Hills (Mammoth, Hot Springs, Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park)

Sessions: Here's a sampling of the many that will be offered.

Sessions for Students
Re-Enactors
Security on a Budget
Exhibits on a Budget
Websites on a Budget
Funding Sources
Native American Artists
Archival Collections
Building A Museum
Sessions for Small Museums
Sessions on Controversial Issues
Engaging Indian artists, historians
Copyright in Digital Collections
Designing a Temporary Exhibit
Textile Care Strategies
Collecting Materials from the Present
Budget Challenges
Identifying Fakes and Forgeries
Fundraising in Tough Economic Times
Accreditation Advice
Museum Studies Programs
Collections Conundrums
Leadership in Collections Practice
Barcoding
Funding Museum Publications
HVAC - installing correctly
Web Security and networks
IMLS: Opportunities and Resources
Planning Your Museum or Cultural Center
Storage Facilities
Disaster Plans that Really Work
Murals for your Exhibit
Victorian Clothing
Stewardship of a Historic Preserve
What Art Can Teach Us About History
Volunteers in Collections
Identifying Fossils in your collection
Care of Native Collections
Planning Collections Facilities
First Person Narratives
College/Museum Partnership
Thinking Big with Small Budgets
Museums and Technology
Visual Thinking Strategies for art
State Historical Societies--What they do
Identifying and caring for Quilts

Works (for/about/by) Fabulous Women May 14

Artists

Biana Allemani
Bree Anderson
Kim Babbitt
Meghan Cochrane
Frank Cordelle
Dannine Donaho
Chuck Egnaczak
Michele Farrier
Shannon Forbes
Pravina Gondalia
Janell Hanson
Justin Hayward
Joan Innes
Diana Kopulos
Crystal Lawrence
Michele McDonald
Barry O'Riley
Nuray Packard
Win Ratz
Gabrielle Reeves
Micah Richardson
Georgia Rowswell
Patricia Sherin
Debra Stern
Carla Stroh

Performers
Katherine Adams
Frank Cordelle
Alice Freeman
Anthony Gabrial
Janell Hanson
Richelle Keinath
Fenae Tyson
Brad Watson
Diane Wolverton

Art Design & Dine May 13 in Cheyenne

From the Art Design & Dine blog:

Art Design & Dine will be taking place this Thursday, May 13th from 5-8:00 p.m., in Cheyenne. Stop at any one of the eleven venues to pick up a map. Get your map stamped at any five businesses on the walk and recieve 10% off your bill at the Historic Plains Hotel Restaurant in downtown Cheyenne.

Start your walk at....

Artful Hand Studio and Gallery
Deselms Fine Art
Clay Paper Scissors Studio & Gallery
Envy Photographics
Ewe Count
Glen Garrett, Architect
The Link Gallery
Nagle Warren Mansion
Prairie Wind Fiber Arts and Beads
The Quilted Corner
Unitarian Universalist Church

See you there!

Closing reception at KEAG Gallery features Pinedale artists and their work

From a press release:

KEAG Gallery, 414 Grand Avenue in Laramie, announces a closing reception for three Pinedale artists this Friday, May 14, from 6-8 p.m. Join artists Sue Sommers, David K. Klarén and JB Bond to view and discuss their work.

Wendy Bredehoft, the curator of the exhibit notes that “Sue, David and JB know each other well and often discuss art making processes and presentation with each other. While each has a unique visual perspective, I believe the work is a strong representation of contemporary art about the west, based upon their imagery and/or the materials they use.”

Sue Sommers lives on a cattle ranch in the Upper Green River Valley near Pinedale, Wyoming. She received her BFA in Printmaking at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and her MFA in Painting at the University of Wyoming. Her work has been exhibited in many group shows nationally and she has had solo shows in the last few years in Jackson, Rock Springs, and Cheyenne.

She is deeply inspired by the state’s monumental topography, and says: “The essence of a landscape painting consists of color and light. Everything else – depth, motion, texture, composition – comes from the effects of color and light as they are conveyed by the paint. I want to reduce the specific experience of western landscape to color and light, so that anyone who enjoys color may absorb it. With this goal in mind, I go out into the landscape to observe, commit an especially striking ‘color swatch’ to memory, and bring it back to the studio. I don’t use a camera, just my eyes and my brain. From each particular ‘color chip’ of a time and place, I create a painting that replicates that experience.”

David Klarén can be found working at Dire Wolf Studios, which he founded in 1994 in Pinedale. He can also be seen around town working as a co-chair for the Pinedale Arts Council. He received his BA in Painting, Sculpture, Metalsmithing from Montana State University and his MFA in Sculpture from Virginia Commonwealth University. He has exhibited widely and his work is part of many private collections.

Pondhawk is one of a new series of large graphite drawings that incorporate intense mark-making in the background contrasted with a silhouetted image – in this case – a dragonfly. The size of the piece is remarkable. It is as if the viewer is looking at a magnified image under the lens of a telescope.

JB Bond is a contemporary blacksmith using both traditional and modern tools and techniques.

He works intuitively, allowing the work to progress and develop throughout the forging and fabrication process. He recycles found and used materials for constructing these relief sculptures. His choice of materials includes stainless steel, carbon or mild steel, aluminum, bronze and copper. He uses hand forging and power hammer techniques to achieve the various shape and textural qualities within the work. Surface coloring is attained through the traditional forging process and various oxidizing heat treatments. From traditional blacksmithing come intriguing contemporary images that focus the viewer’s eye on shape and form and texture. He laughs when he talks about showing up at horse shoeing gatherings, and “everyone just sort of scratches their head and wonders what the heck I’m doing here."

FMI: 307-277-3298

Music and theatre educators are among UW awardees at May 22 banquet

The University of Wyoming College of Arts and Sciences will hold its annual awards banquet Saturday, May 22, at the Hilton Garden Inn and UW Conference Center in Laramie. The event begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m.

Each year, College of Arts and Sciences outstanding alumni and outstanding former faculty are honored. Alumni award winners for 2010 are: Thomas W. McKenna, Rockville, Md., and Torrington; Joseph Meyer, Cheyenne and Casper; Marcia Neely Patton, Casper; and Patrick E. K. Patton, Casper.
Outstanding former faculty to be honored are: Gladys Crane, Laramie; Fred Homer (posthumous), Laramie; Charles Ksir, Laramie; and Paul O. McGrew (posthumous), Laramie.

McKenna, a Torrington native, is a long-time employee with Westat, Inc., which provides contract research services to U.S. federal, state and local governments, as well as foundations and private industry clients. He underwent basic training with the United States Air Force Reserve after receiving his bachelor's degree in mathematics. Following basic training, he enrolled at UW again and received a master's degree in statistics.

Meyer, Wyoming's state treasurer, has a lengthy resume of public service including terms as state attorney general, secretary of state and special assistant to the UW president. His list of professional and community service contributions is extensive. He and his wife Mary are lifetime members of the UW Alumni Association and longtime members of the Cowboy Joe Club. Meyer recently was recognized as an outstanding attorney in the state of Wyoming by the Martindale-Hubbell Legal network.

Marcia Neely Patton has contributed greatly to the music education profession, having taught music at all levels in Casper, Cheyenne, Newcastle, and Olathe, Kan. In 2002, she received the Wyoming Teacher of the Year Award. After receiving her bachelor's degree, Patton went on to receive a master's in education curriculum and instruction, also from UW.

Patrick E.K. Patton, director of choral activities at Casper College, has made more than 400 appearances on four continents as guest conductor, adjudicator and workshop clinician. He has conducted in New York's Avery Fischer Hall and toured Europe as conductor of the Wyoming Ambassadors on several occasions. After receiving his bachelor's degree from UW, Patton went on to earn master's and doctoral degrees in choral conducting from the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri in Kansas City.

Crane joined the Department of Theatre when it still was located in the Arts and Sciences building. She was part of the faculty that moved into the (then) new Fine Arts building in 1970. In 1980, she became a full professor and later spent four years as department head, stepping down in 1992. In 1993, Crane retired but returned to school and pursued a master's of theological studies at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago and then returned to UW to teach feminist theology, drama and religion and gender and religion part-time.

Homer was an active researcher with dozens of published articles on topics ranging from sociology and psychology to political science. He also was the author of four books. He came to UW in 1974 and established the Administration of Justice Program in the Department of Political Science. Later, that program became the Department of Criminal Justice. He served as head of the departments of Political Science and Journalism and Telecommunications. He also served as a city councilman and as mayor of Laramie.

Ksir came to UW in 1972. A widely respected researcher, he wrote the textbook, "Drugs, Society, and Human Behavior," which is used in psychology and health courses across the country. He also helped establish Wyoming CARE, a resource center for the state of Wyoming that provides drug information and education. Ksir served four years as dean of the UW College of Education, and served on the Albany County Board of Education and several state advisory commissions.

McGrew was known for his extensive contributions to the fields of paleontology and geology and for his devotion to students. He joined the UW Department of Geology in 1946 when S.H. "Doc" Knight convinced him to come to the university to develop a museum and improve its collections of vertebrate fossils from the state. With the aid and support of Knight, a small museum was established in the old Geology Building and McGrew responded to every report of fossil finds in Wyoming and gained the respect of many citizens. He found fossils that still are used by experts across the United States.

Lengthier biographies of the recipients can be found on the Arts and Sciences Web page, www.uwyo.edu/a&s/ and click on the awards banquet link under "Events." For more information about the banquet, please call the College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Office at 766-2755.

Photo: Retired Theatre Professor Gladys Crane will be among those recognized May 22 at the UW College of Arts and Sciences annual awards ceremony.

Art show features Pinedale H.S. students

The Pinedale Fine Arts Council will host an exhibit featuring art by Pinedale High School students on Thursday, May 27, 5 p.m., at the Sublette County Library in Pinedale. The artwork was produced during the PFAC-sponsored residency by Cody artist Steve Schrepferman. The event is free and open to the public.

Arcadia Publishing release two new history books by authors from Wyoming

From John Michael Tabakian at Arcadia Publishing:

I’m pleased to announce the release of Fort Laramie and Douglas, the newest additions to Arcadia Publishing’s popular "Images of America" series.

Both books are by local authors. Fort Laramie is by Starley Talbott, a Wyoming native, freelance writer, and former newspaper reporter. This is her second book in the "Images of America" series. Photographs in this book are from the Fort Laramie National Historic Site, state and national archives, and the author.

The authors of Douglas, Linda Graves Fabian and Carol Price Tripp, both native Douglasites, carefully and lovingly selected photographs from the extensive photographic collections of the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum in Douglas, thanks to the generosity of executive director Arlene Ekland-Earnst.

With more than 200 historic photographs, the books are full of great content.

For more information about the books, contact John Michael Tabakian, publicist, Arcadia Publishing, ph: 843.853.2070 x601and fax: 843.853.0044. Explore more than 6,500 titles at http://www.arcadiapublishing.com/

Artists' workshop May 14 at WOW in Laramie

Works of Wyomings sent this announcement:

Works of Wyoming invites you to attend a free workshop just for artists! It will be held May 14, 3 p.m. at the WOW Suite (Room 271) in the Civic Center, 710 E. Garfield, Laramie.

Mike Shay from the Wyoming Arts Council will be with us to talk about funding opportunities available to individual artists.

This is an exciting opportunity that we want every artist to take advantage of! Please consider joining us and feel free to invite any artist who may be interested!

FMI: wwbc@uwyo.edu

WY Travel & Tourism holds meetings this week about new visitor center

Wyoming Travel & Tourism will be hosting a series of Community Meetings to gather input for the new Southeast Visitor Information Center. Meeting times and locations are listed below. Please pass this information on to any interested parties in your surrounding areas.

Monday, May 10th: Cheyenne, Kiwanis Community House. 6:00 pm
Tuesday, May 11th: Torrington, Brand Room- Goshen County Fairgrounds. 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 12th: Laramie, Laramie Fire Station #2. 6:00 pm.

For more information on these upcoming meetings, please contact Leslie Kedelty, Industry Services Manager at 307-777-2839 or leslie.kedelty@visitwyo.gov

UW Art Museum's "20:20 Performing Arts" event has been postponed

Notice from the UW Art Museum blog:

The UW Art Museum has decided to postpone "20:20 Performing Arts," originally scheduled for June 7th. Summertime in Laramie means fewer presenters are around and smaller crowds, so we've decided to reschedule this particular 20:20 for later in the year. Keep an eye out for future 20:20 events; we're always looking for new presenters to show off their work!

Back from Cody

Traveled to Cody with arts council Manager Rita Basom and Folk and Traditional Specialist Anne Hatch for a town meeting and the opening of the Art of the Horse exhibit at the BBHC. No bad weather driving on Thursday last week, just some snow flurries through the Wind River canyon. What a spectacular landscape when shrouded by low snowing clouds.

It was a productive town meeting with many good ideas about promoting the arts and individual artists. Thanks to Steve Schrepferman for setting up the venue, getting the word out and for the refreshments, and to David Neary board vice chair for facilitating an interesting discussion.

The tourist season hasn't gotten into full swing just yet, but art galleries were beginning to open their doors. We had some free time on Friday and visited a few businesses along Sheridan Ave., Cody's main street. The merchants on main street have worked hard to give it an integrated look--the awnings are all in good shape, and the visual appeal of the street calls travelers to stop and take a look around.

We stopped at Arlan's Quality Consignments shop, full of collectibles, antiques, and everything in between. Arlan is a woman who enjoys her occupation immensely. There, I learned about a Cody artist, Olive Fell (1896-1980), engraver, etcher, muralist, sculptor and painter. She drew the most charming bears. Fell was born on Big Timber Creek. She attended the Art Institute of Chicago and the Arts Student League of New Yorkand while there, met and was good friends with Georgia O'Keefe. Her speciality was animals, and her renditions of "Little Bear Cub" were put on postcards, greeting cards and novelties and sold in national parks, not just Yellowstone. Fell did work on postcards and posters for Yellowstone National Park in the 1940s and early 1950s. If you do a search on her name, you can get an idea of her other art work.

We stopped by the Harry Jackson gallery and took a quick look inside. Harry wasn't there, but we did meet his staff and looked around at the astounding art work that Harry has produced over an almost 75-year career. A couple of portraits done when he was sixteen and a few from his WWII military years hung in the first display room. While in New York, Harry met Jackson Pollack and was highly influenced by his style, and several paintings from that era show this. In the large gallery space, his sculptures of the western lifestyle dominate, possibly what he is best know for in the West. I asked the staffer if Harry was still working, he is eighty-some now, and she kindly took us back to his work area, and showed us five new contemporary paintings, on easels, that Harry had been working on. There was the rolling stool where Harry must sit while working on them. It felt like he worked on them simultaneously. We heard later that Harry had been having some health problems and had been in the hospital and was recovering in a rehab center. Harry was a Governor's Art Awards winner in 1990, 20 years ago.

We also went by the Sue Simpson Gallagher Gallery and the Big Horn Gallery. Both carry some extrordinary artists. Also stopped by Open Range Images, a gallery operated by a group of photographers who share the operating costs of the space and display their photographs.

"My Horse, My Gun, My Libraries"

From a SPCR press release:

Lynne Swanson brings to life early 20th century Wyoming librarian Mabel Wilkinson on Thursday May 13 at the Wyoming State Museum.

Swanson’s talk, “My Horse, My Gun, My Libraries,” is presented by the Wyoming Humanities Council and sponsored by the Wyoming State Museum and State Museum Volunteers.

The lecture begins at 7 p.m. in the State Museum’s Multi-Purpose Room. The event is free and open to the public.

In February 1915, Mabel Wilkinson, a young, highly trained librarian was hired by the Wheatland Library Association to organize their county library and plan for expansion work. Later, she worked for the Park County Library in Cody after answering the advertisement that stated, “Wanted: a young woman who is not only a college graduate with library school training and experience, but in addition must be able to get along with Western people, ride and drive, as well as pack a horse, follow a trail, shoot straight, run an automobile, and be able to ‘rough it’ whenever necessary.”

Swanson is a retired librarian who now devotes her time to researching western women. She lives in Cheyenne.

“My Horse, My Gun, My Libraries” is presented by the Wyoming Humanities Council as part of its 2010 Humanities Forum.

The Wyoming Humanities Council provides public humanities-based programs in partnership with local organizations and is funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities.

The Wyoming State Museum is located in the Barrett Building, 2301 Central Ave. in Cheyenne. For more information about this or other State Museum programs, please call 777-7022.

Early registration deadline extended to May 20 for Wyoming Writers, Inc., conference in Cody

Wyoming Writers, Inc., has extended its early bird conference registration deadline to May 20. The conference will be held June 4-6 in Cody.

The early bird rate is $155 per person for members and $170 for non-members. After May 20, that rate goes up to $175 and $200, respectively.

Join WWInc when you register and pay only the member rate for the conference!

The conference features workshops and presentations by Edgar and Spur Award-winning author Max McCoy; award-winning novelist and Wyoming Poet Laureate (1996-2002) Robert Roripaugh; Lee Ann Roripaugh, winner of the National Poetry Series Prize for her book "Beyond Heart Mountain;" literary agents Suzie Townsend of Fine Print Literary Management and Gordon Warnock of Andrea Hurst Literary Management; and UW/CC humanities professtor and Wyoming Arts Council board chair Bruce Richardson.

Find a printable registration form at the WWInc web site at http://www.wyowriters.org/

Piatigorsky Tour resumes tonight in Worland

Harpist Heidi Krutzen and flutist Lorna McGhee will perform a 10-concert tour of Wyoming May 5-12. Two concerts have already been held -- in Dayton and Upton.

The remaining free Wyoming concerts on the Piatigorsky Foundation Tour are scheduled for:

Friday, May 7th, 7 p.m., Worland, Worland Community Center Complex Conference Room, 1200 Culbertson Avenue, call 866-388-1438 for information.
Saturday, May 8th, Thermopolis, Community Federated Presbyterian Church, 244 N. 6th St., call 307- 864-3391 for information.
Sunday, May 9th, 7 p.m., Lander, Trinity Episcopal Church, 860 S. 3rd St., call 307-332-2509 for information.
Monday May 10th, 2 p.m., Wamsutter, Desert School, 235 Bugas Ave., call 307-324-7811 for information.
7 p.m., Saratoga, Platte Valley Community Center, 210 W. Elm St., call 307-328-9274 for information.
Wednesday, May 12th, 1:30 p.m., Pine Bluffs, Pine Bluffs High School, 512 Maple St., call 307-245-4000 for information.
7 p.m., Pine Bluffs, Pine Bluffs Community Center, 708 Lawson St. call 307-245-3301 for information.

A private performance will be held at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Sheridan. All other performances are open to the public.

For more information regarding the Wyoming concert venues and times, contact the Wyoming Arts Council at 307-777-7742, or visit their website at http://wyoarts.state.wy.us/.

This year’s tour was coordinated by the Wyoming Arts Council in conjunction with the Piatigorsky Foundation. The Muriel and Dr. Seymour Thickman Family Charitable Foundation in Sheridan underwrites the tour

FMI: 307-777-7742

UW one step closer to new visual arts facility

From a May 7 UW press release:

The University of Wyoming Board of Trustees today (Friday) approved a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) for construction of a Visual Arts Facility.

Trustees approved a GMP of $26.674 million, as proposed by GE Johnson Construction Inc., the project's construction manager-at-risk. A GMP ensures the costs of the project will not exceed the agreed-upon price.

The trustees' approval will allow construction of the facility to begin in August, with completion scheduled 18 months after construction begins. The Visual Arts Facility will be located east of the Centennial Complex building that houses the UW Art Museum and American Heritage Center. It will replace overcrowded and out-of-date facilities for visual arts and will include studios for ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking, graphic design, art history and sculpture.

The Wyoming State Legislature approved issuing revenue bonds for the project not to exceed $33 million, to be paid for by UW's share of federal mineral royalties, which are restricted by law to use for capital facilities purposes.

Call for entries: Failbetter Novella Contest

From Guy Lebeda's LitOps newsletter:

Failbetter Novella Contest
Deadline: May 15, 2010
Web site: failbetter.com/newsandnotes/wordpress/?p=1
E-mail address: novella@failbetter.com.

A prize of $500 and publication in Failbetter will be given for a novella. All entries will be considered for publication. Submit the first 5,000 words of a manuscript by May 15. There is no entry fee. Visit the Web site for complete guidelines. Failbetter, Novella Contest, 2022 Grove Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220. Thom Didato, Editor.

"Traces of Tradition" at the BBHC in Cody

From the Buffalo Bill Historical Center web site:

A new and activity-packed 3-day festival May 7-9, Traces of Tradition, brings together a number of Western traditions like music, craft, art, and more to the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. So much to do and see - so much fun for everyone!

In conjunction with Art of the Horse - An Invitational Western Gear Makers Show. May 7 - June 6, 2010

Live Entertainment All Weekend Long!

Nashville based singer/songwriter Stephanie Layne perfroms all weekend long at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.

Other high-energy entertainers include: Cody's own Bobby Chitwood, and Wyoming Arts Council roster artists -- Bryan Ragsdale and Prickly Pair!

On Friday, May 7 starting at 8 p.m. dance to "Wylie and the Wild West" at a kick-off celebration for the Art of the Horse at the BBHC.

FMI: 307-587-4771.

Lander native makes switch from carrying sandwich boards to professional "Cabaret" tour

Great article in the Casper Star-Tribune's WeekEnder section about the vagaries of the acting world:

When she got the call, she was strolling through New York City's Time Square dressed as Princess Leia and wearing a sandwich board to promote a Broadway show.

“Miss Oakley Boycott?” asked the voice on her cell phone. “I’m pretty sure I’m going to make your day.”

That's how the Lander woman found out she nailed the audition for the professional tour of the musical “Cabaret,” scheduled to play at the Casper Events Center next month. The voice on the line was the producer telling her she’d landed the lead of Sally Bowles.

Boycott, 20, was so excited that she squealed, jumping up and down so fast her Princess Leia hair buns nearly bounced off her ears.

Then the news hit her. She’d be playing the part made famous on the London stage by Dame Judi Dench and made legendary on film by Liza Minnelli.

"Cabaret" will be on stage at the Casper Events Center on Tuesday, June 1, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $35, $40, and $50. Purchase Tickets Now. 1-800-442-2256.

Last chance to see James Surls' exhibit

James Surls, "Flowers," installation view

From the UW Art Museum blog:

Last chance to see James Surls: Flowers, an exhibition of sculpture that explores the floral theme, a signature motif in the artist's work, and the idea of sculpture suspended from the ceiling. All are precursors to Rolling Flower, the major commissioned work of art for Coe Library's new expansion.

James Surls: Flowers closes Saturday, May 8. Gallery hours are 10am - 5 pm Mon. - Fri.

"Spring Banga!" brings hip-hop to Casper

Wyoming Plays the WYO: Gary Small & the Coyote Brothers May 8

Gary Small & The Coyote Brothers perform at the WYO Theater in Sheridan on Saturday, May 8, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $9-$20.

Info from the WYO Theater web site:

Wyoming is a big place with big talent and even bigger history and pride. For the past two years Wyoming Plays the WYO has served as a terrific presentation of what brilliant skill the performers in the Cowboy state possess and this year is no different. In our special Native American edition of the show we’ll feature singer/songwriter/rocker Gary Small and the Coyote Brothers and many phenomenal Wyoming natives who will light up the stage with their talents. Gary Small is a western man all the way, he was raised in the wilds of Wyoming and Montana and is a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. Perhaps we should call it Wyoming ROCKS the WYO, come and see for yourself! FMI: 307-672-9084

Books (and book festivals) are for cowboys and horses and you and me

It's been awhile since this book-loving cowboy and his literate horse have been seen in Wyoming.

But horse and rider and books and writers and readers return Sept. 24-25, 2010, for the Equality State Book Festival in Casper.

FMI: http://www.equalitystatebookfest.org/

Photo: Illustration by Zak Pullen of Casper

Introducing new WAC visual arts fellowship recipient Shelby Shadwell of Laramie

"Economy" by Shelby Shadwell, Charcoal, pastel, graphite on paper on panel, 22"x15"

Shelby Shadwell of Laramie is one of three recipients of a 2010 visual arts fellowship from the Wyoming Arts Council.

His entry consisted of two series of drawings: "Low Pressure," charcoal on paper; and "Economy," charcoal on paper, with some also including pastels and graphite.

He is an assistant professor in the University of Wyoming art department and teaches drawing and printmaking. He graduated in 2006 with an M.F.A. in studio printmaking and drawing from Southern Illinois University.

Visit his web site at http://www.shelbyshadwell.com/

Creative writing fellowship apps are in the mail

Copies of the application for the 2011 Wyoming Arts Council creative writing fellowships are in the mail and on the way to everyone on the agency's lit mailing list (264 addresses). If you don't receive one by next week, contact the WAC at 307-777-7742 and a staffer will put one in the mail to you.

You can also go to the WAC web site for a pintable application. Go to http://wyoarts.state.wy.us/IndArtist/PDF/2011cwfellowshipappl.pdf.

Judge for this year's fellowships in creative nonfiction is Lee Gutkind, author and founder of Creative Nonfiction magazine. For more about Lee, go to http://www.leegutkind.com/

Postmark deadline is June 18!

FMI: Mike Shay, mshay@state.wy.us or 307-777-5234.

"Meet the Artist" May 17 in Buffalo

"White Flag" by Williams Jennings, bronze, edition of 20, 11"x9"x5." Quote from the artist: "Along the creek close to our home, my wife and I saw a whitetail buck during an early morning walk. With earth-toned coat, he quickly blended into the mix of autumn leaves and branches, only the "white flag" of his tail to be seen. Click here for web site.

The Johnson County Arts & Humanities Council presents its fourth "Meet the Artist" event on Monday, May 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at the Hitching Post, 51 S. Main St., Buffalo.

Meet sculptor William "Hugh" Jennings.

Free and open to the public.

FMI: William Hugh Jennings, 331 South Burritt Avenue, Buffalo, WY 82834; 307-684-9473, mailto:307-684-9473wmhugh@collinscom.net

Summer Melodrama looking for volunteers

Photo from last summer's CLTP melodrama production


This e-mail bulletin was sent out by the Cheyenne Little Theatre Players. You may note some familiar names taking the helm of melodrama volunteers. Read on...

It's Melodrama Time!

Mike and Chris Shay have agreed to Co-Chair the 54th Melodrama, and they are in need of people to chair the Marketing/PR and Front-Of-House(Front of House consists of Box Office, Concessions, Bar & Wait Staff) Sub-Committees. If you are interested, please email them at melodrama@cheyennelittletheatre.org

We will also be seeking volunteers to staff our bar area during the run of the show. Anyone interested in pouring our refreshments must be 21 or over and TIPS trained. Free TIPS training sessions will be offered from 5-9:30 p.m. on:
Tuesday May 4
Tuesday June 1
Tuesday July 6

Location -- at The American Legion Post 6, 2001 East Lincolnway, Cheyenne

No need to register, just show up and they'll fit you in!

TIPS training is valid for 3 years. If you have been previously trained remember to check your TIPS card or online for the expiration date!

Information to follow soon on our annual Volunteer Round Up and Atlas Clean Up Day to be held at the Atlas Theatre in June. We will provide all of the needed information regarding our other Melodrama Volunteer Opportunities available to those age 16 and up at that time.

Introducing new WAC visual arts fellowship recipient David Jones of Laramie

"Goldmines" by David Jones, Laramie; acrylic and spray paint and graphite on branded panel with steel, wood, and threaded installation components, 11'x6'x1'

At an April 24 ceremony in Casper, David Jones of Laramie was named one of three Wyoming Arts Council visual arts fellowship recipients for 2010. David teaches sculpture in the University of Wyoming art department.

Here's the artist's statement he submitted with his fellowship entry:

The boom and bust nature that was inherent in the early development of the Western United States still occurs and is very evident in Wyoming. Things such as the current national and glo bal economic crisis and the ripple effects on supply and demand that have come out of this have resulted in the evaporation of entires communities -- ghost towns. The essence of the boom and bust cycle, -- what it represents on a larger scale and how its nature has helped shape the Western landscape -- is what my current work seeks to explore.

Haylee Bolinger to teach children's arts classes

Announcement from the Johnson County Arts & Humanities Council:

Buffalo High School alumnus and University of Wyoming fine arts graduate Haylee Bolinger will be the visiting artist for the 2010 Buffalo Summer Art Guild children's arts classes June 7-11 at Clear Creek Elementary School.

For preliminary registration and fee information, e-mail Amber at buffalosummerartguild@yahoo.com

Christopher Amend exhibit opens in Cheyenne

From a press release:

Clay Paper Scissors Gallery & Studio’s new show is "Figures of the Mind," paintings and drawings by Christopher Amend.

Amend, an artist and retired art teacher, is a Worland native living in Gillette. His excellent technical skills complement the mysterious and thought-provoking images that he creates. These pictures filter Amend’s “perceptions, musings, thoughts, struggles and yearnings” through his idiosyncratic view of the world. The show represents a selection of work from the last three years, and has not been previously exhibited in Cheyenne. We are fortunate to have this opportunity to show Chris’ work!

Christopher Amend, a member of the Wyoming Arts Council's artists' roster, will be at the upcoming reception on Thursday, May 6, from 5-7 p.m. Please join us! In addition, Clay Paper Scissors is open Thursdays 4-7 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays from 1-5 p.m. This show will be up through May 22, 2010.

Clay Paper Scissors is located at 1506 Thomes Ave, Suite B, Cheyenne.

Check us out on Facebook!

To view some of Chris's work, go to http://www.chrisamend.com/gallery/

Wyoming PBS sponsors Wind River Music Showcase in Lander

From the Wind River Music Showcase web site:

Music is integral to every culture, and with its independent spirit and unique history, Wyoming has its own unique flavor of talented musicians in many genres. Please join us for this four part music series featuring Wyoming musicians performing live at the Museum of the American West in Lander!

Hosted by Wyoming Public Radio’s music director Grady Kirkpatrick, the show celebrates the talent of musicians whose music tells the story of Wyoming’s people. The television series will air in November 2010. Don’t miss your opportunity to hear fantastic live music, get a chance to be on television, and support Wyoming PBS all at the same time!

Showcase Lineup:

Saturday, May 8th, 7:00 pm: Michael Hurwitz (shown in photo) & the Aimless Drifters with opening act “V” the Gypsy Cowbelle

Saturday, June 26th, 7:00 pm: The Teka Brock Band with opening act Jared Rogerson

Saturday, July 17th, 7:00 pm: Anne and Pete Sibley with opening act Doug Andrews

Thursday, July 29th, 7:00 pm: The Jalan Crossland Band with opening act J. Shogren

Presented By, Wyoming PBS, committed to producing the music series because it fulfills an important aspect of their mission - to provide a “cultural resource dedicated to enriching the lives of Wyoming people through telecommunications and other related services.” The Wind River Music Showcase will bring Wyoming music to viewers who might never have the opportunity to hear and see that music in person.

FMI: http://www.wyoptv.org/musicshowcase/

Editor's Note: Mike Hurwitz, Miss "V" the Gypsy Cowbelle and Doug Andrews are Wyoming Arts Council roster artists. Support local music by bringing them to your community through a WAC Arts Across Wyoming grant.

Student art exhibition at Community Fine Arts Center in Rock Springs

An exhibition of artwork by students at Rock Springs and Independence high schools will be held May 4-15 at the Community Fine Arts Center, 400 C Street, Rock Springs.

The opening reception will be held on Wednesday, May 5, 6-7:30 p.m. Free and open to the public.

FMI: http://www.cfac4art.com/

Dona Fleming Trunk Show today in Laramie

Cheyenne roster artist Georgia Rowswell conducts workshops in Campbell County

Georgia Rowswell sends word via Facebook about her workshops in Campbell County:

"Just got back from a successful four-day paper-making workshop in Gillette (one of her students exhibits his work above). I taught paper-making and collage to over 100 kids! Lots of pulp and paper making going on."