The Artistic Side of Montana's Yellowstone Country
Beartooth Gallery, Red Lodge, Photo by Andy Austin
Tonight is the first Art Walk in Bozeman, a town with over 30 art galleries. If you have yet to experience an art walk, it's a lovely event with galleries debuting new exhibits, often with the artists on hand to discuss their work, hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. These events are local favorites — community gatherings that allow you to see new work and catch up with friends. In Bozeman, they take place on the second Friday of the month, June through September, and there is a holiday walk in December.
The annual Sweet Pea Festival and the Summer SLAM Festival are fantastic arts exploration events. They both take place on the first weekend in August and showcase visual arts, ceramics, jewelry making and live music. There's food, family-friendly entertainment and a collection of art that is sure to inspire.
Sweet Pea Festival, Bozeman, Photo by Bob Allen
Livingston is also known for its robust art scene, which includes monthly art walks on the fourth Friday of the month, June through September. Also on the horizon, ArtWeek Park County, a week of events including artist lectures, student and adult workshops, fine art exhibits, and culminating with a live auction of the region’s best art. It’s a way for the community (and you!) to connect through art.
While the visual art scene is spectacular, it's interesting to note that this little town in Montana is home to more authors per capita than New York City! When you’re there, check out the events calendars at Wheatgrass Books, Elk River Books and Conley's Books and Music. They all host literary events with an impressive line-up of writers and thought-provoking discussions.
The Red Lodge Art Walks have an immersive element, with family-friendly activities taking place in conjunction with the event each month. Learn how to make mini mandalas, flower sculptures or t-shirt printmaking. The walks are held every second Saturday through September, with a Labor Day Art Fair at the Depot Gallery on Monday, Sept. 1. There will be live entertainment, artist demos, and food!
Tippet Rise Art Center, Fishtail, Montana
Nearby in Fishtail, Montana, Tippet Rise Art Center offers free hiking, biking, and van tours to explore its outdoor sculpture collection. The pieces sit along fifteen miles of trails amidst a working cattle and sheep ranch at the base of the Absaroka Mountain Range. The views alone are stunning, and the art is impressive. You'll need to register in advance, but weekly biking and hiking reservations are added.
The Big Sky Artisan Festival takes place July 19 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Len Hill Park in Big Sky Town Center. Over 90 vendors, plus food, live music, and demonstrations, will be present. The festival coincides with the Big Sky Professional Bull Riding, so if you're looking for a taste of Western culture, this is the weekend for you!
Finally, in West Yellowstone, the Wretched Mess Fest celebrates art, music, and fly-fishing on Sept. 5 and 6. This unlikely combination includes an artist market, a casting competition, live music and gear demos.
We hope you'll join us to explore the creative side of Montana's Yellowstone Country this summer!