The Arts Council of Big Sky will announce this year’s Music in the Mountains concert lineup on Thursday, May 2, at The Waypoint in the Big Sky Town Center.
The highly anticipated lineup reveal coincides with Big Sky’s annual Give Big Fest, which features local nonprofits coming together for a 24-hour celebration of giving. Give Big is a great opportunity to support the community by making donations to local organizations and helps keep Music in the Mountains admission free, along with supporting other year-round programming.
Celebrate and kick off this year’s event with the Arts Council and Big Sky’s other incredible nonprofit organizations by participating in Give Big Fest at the event. Test your knowledge of the Big Sky community by visiting with representatives from various Big Sky nonprofit organizations to answer questions on our special Give Big Bingo card. Enter your completed card into a drawing for a big prize basket! When you make a donation to any Big Sky nonprofit, you’ll receive a token to redeem at The Waypoint that night for either popcorn and a soda or a pint during the event.
“We’re excited to partner with all of the great nonprofits we have here in Big Sky,” Brian Hurlbut, Arts Council executive director, said. “It’s always a fun event, and we’re looking forward to announcing the summer music lineup as well.”
The event starts at 6 p.m. and there is no admission charge. Browse the local nonprofits and enjoy appetizer and drink specials from The Waypoint. At 7:30 p.m. the Arts Council will begin the lineup reveal, followed immediately by live music from the Tuesday Night Rodeo Club.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of hosting Music in the Mountains in the Town Center’s Len Hill Park. The free concert series brings nationally touring musicians along with up and coming emerging artists to Big Sky throughout the summer for a night of family friendly fun, and has been voted Big Sky’s Best Annual Event for the past two years. The music starts on June 20 this year and runs through Sept. 12. For more information please visit bigskyarts.org.
The Arts Council of Big Sky is presenting the 2024 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival on Tuesday, March 19, at 7 p.m. at the Waypoint in Big Sky. This event is part of the Adventure Circuit Film Series, a curated collection of outdoor and recreation-focused film festivals packaged together for a greater impact on Big Sky.
The Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival (VIMFF) connects our global outdoor community with international filmmakers, creators, and speakers so that we can inspire, entertain, and bring mountain adventure to you. The Festival presents unique outdoor films and content that illustrate experiences and cultures from all around the globe, bringing communities together to promote positive values and active lifestyles. Each year, the VIMFF takes award-winning and other selected films on tour across Canada, the United States and around the world. It gives local communities the chance to enjoy some of the world’s best mountain films and enjoy an evening of stories of snowsports, climbing, biking, mountain culture, the environment, and more.
Advance tickets for the event are on sale now at bigskyarts.org. Any remaining tickets will be available at the door. Next up in the Adventure Circuit will be the Paddling Film Festival World Tour on June 11.
By Jack Reaney ASSOCIATE EDITOR
On Feb. 22, the Arts Council of Big Sky hosted its 12th annual Auction for the Arts, welcoming 280 bidders and auctioning off 85 pieces of art made by 69 different artists. This year’s art auction was both the highest-grossing and highest-netting auction to date for the Arts Council.
The event was hosted at the Montage Big Sky hotel and raised a net total of $185,000 for local art programming. Auctiongoers considered artwork from a total of 100 regional and national artists and gallerists across silent, fixed-price and live auctions. In addition to the $238,000 collected during the auctions—that total amount was split between the Arts Council and each selling artist—the “Arts For All Paddle Call” raised $58,000 in donation pledges.
The Arts Council of Big Sky is hosting an exhibit showcasing new original work from renowned artist Lamont Joseph White in celebration of the National Brotherhood of Skiers Annual Summit being held in Big Sky from Feb. 24 and March 2. On Tuesday, Feb. 27, meet and greet the artist from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the BASE Art Gallery. Afterwards there will be a NBS Pub Crawl from 3 to 6 p.m., which includes a stop at the Deborah Butterfield sculpture, “Winter.”
Lamont Joseph White was born and raised in the New York City metropolitan area, where he lacked visual inspiration. His influences are derived by aspects of both modern and traditional approaches–classicism and renaissance for their academic forms of beauty and impression and abstraction that speak to his sense of contemporary times.
He received a Bachelor’s of Fine Art from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York with continued studies at The School of Visual Arts and the New School. As a student, he was fortunate to have an incredible creative environment and passion for the arts early on. During his schooling, renowned illustrators Jack Potter and Antonio Lopez took him under their wings and contributed greatly to his approach and creative direction.
After graduating he went on to illustrate ad campaigns and editorials for Adidas, Converse, Coleman, Fairchild Publications, Ebony Man, Cole Haan, Bally Shoes, Amalfi Shoes, Bandolino Shoes, amongst others. His ongoing creative pursuits have included fine art exhibits, illustration, graphic design and product development across multiple industries.
Exhibitions have included The Society of Illustrators and various other New York City metro area galleries. More recently his work has been seen at Ski Utah Headquarters, Snowbird resort and Christian Center of Park City, where he currently resides. He has also collaborated with Teton Gravity Research.
Thematically, inclusion and diversity are always important for Lamont. It’s often said that race doesn’t matter or that color isn’t seen. He prefers, instead, to observe our differences so that we can better embrace them.
The artwork will be on display in the BASE Gallery for the next couple of months and is open to the public during BASE Community Center’s hours of operation.
The Arts Council of Big Sky will once again be hosting its Annual Auction for the Arts on Thursday, Feb. 22in the Grand Ballroom at the Montage Hotel in Big Sky. The event—now in its 12th year—includes a fixed price lottery sale, live and silent auctions, a quick-finish with selected artists, food, drinks and live music.
The silent auction catalog, which features more than 100 juried items from local, regional and national artists, is now available for viewing by visiting bigskyart.org. This year’s silent auction features pottery, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, furniture and more from artists including Jill Zeidler, Parker Ford, Carrie French, Lorraine Lagerbloom, Betsey Hurd, Tabby Ivy, Kirsten Kainz, Rocky Hawkins, Jennifer Pulchinski, Stella Nall, Adair Peck, Sue Moncada and many, many more. The artwork was selected from more than 150 submissions and curated to present a wide range of mediums, price points and styles. The silent auction bidding opens at 9 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 16.
Those interested in the silent auction will have a chance to see the artwork up close and in person at the Auction Preview event, starting on Friday, Feb. 16, at 5 p.m. in the old Choppers building. The artwork will be set up for viewing through Monday, Feb. 19, and an opening reception will take place from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, featuring live music with complimentary snacks and beverages. Please visit bigskyarts.org for more details on this event.
View Drew Christie's “He Wears on His Head a Raven,” in the silent auction catalog.
Tickets for the in-person gala at the Montage are now on sale at bigskyarts.org. This annual fundraiser for one of Big Sky’s longest running non-profits has become one of the region’s most anticipated events of the year and is a great way to support the Arts Council’s mission of enriching the community through artistic experiences, as well as supporting working artists. Proceeds raised from artworks sales help fund the organization’s education programs, including its pioneering Contribute-What-You-Can art class fee structure, providing accessible and affordable options for participants of all ages. The Arts Council debuted a brand-new classroom in March of 2022, which includes pottery wheels, two kilns and space for a variety of art classes.
For more information on the Arts Council’s programs, please visit bigskyarts.org.
Published in Explore Big Sky
The Arts Council of Big Sky is presenting the film “Advice for Girls” on Tuesday, January 30, at the Waypoint in the Big Sky Town Center. Advance tickets are $15 and are now on sale at https://bigskyarts.org/events/advice-for-girls-winter24. The film is part of the Arts Council’s Adventure Circuit film series, designed to showcase stoke through film in Big Sky.
“Advice for Girls” puts a spotlight on the collective experience of women in the ski industry. The film showcases advice from three generations of women in skiing. Each generation reminds women and girls of all ages that they are worthy of success, allowed to take up space, and are extremely valuable to the ski industry. Featuring an all-female cast and crew, Advice for Girls is a must-see ski film for any skiing enthusiast.
With an intersectional cast featuring all types of women – women of color, queer women, women with disabilities, and more – the crew hopes that everyone can find someone in the film to connect to. “My hope is that the film will help girls skip over some of the limiting beliefs imposed upon past generations of skiers and inspire them to show up as their truest selves,” says producer and athlete Addy Jacobsend.
The Adventure Film Circuit continues later this winter with a showing of the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival on March 19. For more information please visit bigskyarts.org.
Article featured in Explore Big Sky - https://www.explorebigsky.com/advice-for-girls-screening-at-the-waypoint-on-jan-30/53018
By Leslie Kilgore Explore Big Sky CONTRIBUTOR
Jasmine Pickner Bell (or, Cunku Was’te Win’ meaning “Good Road Woman” in Dakota) is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux tribe (or, Hunkpati Oyate). She grew up watching her brothers and father practice the traditional hoop dance highly respected by her family and community. Once a male-dominated dance, it is sacred amongst many tribes in the U.S. and Canada with each tribe having its own origin story for their particular dance.
By Leslie Kilgore EXPLORE BIG SKY CONTRIBUTOR
The Arts Council of Big Sky continues their fundraising efforts for a public art display titled To the Skyland by artist Brad Rude, a life size sculpture that will enhance the already robust public art collection in Big Sky. Rude’s piece has already been inspiring locals; fourth graders at Ophir Elementary School have been busy sharing their stories and poems about the sculpture after a small replica of the art took a visit to their classrooms. The piece is a bronze and features a lonesome wolf looking ahead with the aid of two wheels and a walking stick.
The Arts Council of Big Sky will once again be hosting its Annual Auction for the Arts on Thursday, February 22, in the Grand Ballroom at the Montage Hotel in Big Sky. The event—now in its 12th year—includes a fixed price lottery sale, live and silent auctions, a quick-finish with selected artists, food, drinks and live music.
Tickets will go on sale on Friday, December 8, at 9 a.m., online at bigskyarts.org/auction. The Arts Council will also be hosting a soft opening for the Luck of the Draw - Auction Preview Exhibition, featuring selected artworks for the auction’s Luck of the Draw component, at the BASE Gallery on Friday evening from 5-8 p.m. as part of the Christmas Stroll weekend. The Luck of the Draw sale is a new addition to the fundraising gala that showcases artwork by elite artists at a fixed price. Committed bidders can submit an intent to purchase form to enter an auction-night drawing for the opportunity to purchase artwork. Featured artists include Clyde Aspevig, Stephanie Revennaugh, Josh DeWeese, Ralph Oberg, Ben Miller, Marianne Kemp and more.
This annual fundraiser for one of Big Sky’s longest running non-profits has become one of the region’s most anticipated events of the year, and features some of the best local, regional and national artists. It’s a great way to support the Arts Council’s mission of enriching the community through artistic experiences, as well as supporting working artists. Proceeds raised from artworks sales help fund the organization’s education programs, including its pioneering Contribute-What-You-Can art class fee structure, providing accessible and affordable options for participants of all ages. The Arts Council debuted a brand-new classroom in March of 2022, which includes pottery wheels, two kilns and space for a variety of art classes.
“The new arts classroom has been a tremendous success since it opened, boasting more than 1,000 participants so far” said Arts Council Executive Director Brian Hurlbut. “It’s a true asset to the community and has allowed a wide variety of aspiring artists to take classes.”
Hurlbut noted that 40 percent of the art class participants have taken advantage of the lower fees in the Contribute-What-You-Can program. In addition, a third of the art class registrants have donated more to allow others to afford to participate.
“Raising additional funds for this program will allow it to continue,” said Hurlbut. “Our goal is to provide access to the arts for everyone, and this program is the best example of that.”
The event also includes a weeklong preview of auction items with an opening reception slated for February 16. For more information please visit bigskyarts.org/auction.
Each year the Arts Council of Big Sky brings a culturally rich artist to Big Sky for a multi-day residence in collaboration with the Big Sky School District. During their time at school, the artist works with a partner teacher to deliver two days of workshops that aim to help students build a deeper, authentic understanding of diverse cultures through the arts.
This year’s Artist in Residence is World Champion Hoop Dancer Jasmine Pickner Bell, or Cunku Was’te Win’, meaning “Good Road Woman,” in Dakota. A member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe (also known as Hunkpati Oyate), Jasmine is the first woman to hold the hoop dancing Champion title. Jasmine realized her calling when tragedy struck and her brother, also a talented hoop dancer, was killed in a car accident. In honor of his life, she trained and performed in his place at the World Championship Hoop Dance Competition. She won, becoming the first woman to hold the title and compete in a dress (up until that point, many female hoop dancers still performed in traditional male attire). The following year she defended her title. And now she is proud to say, more women have entered the field and wear their traditional dress, not men’s attire.
The hoop dance has been described as the renewal of the collective human spirit. It is a dance of healing, connectedness, and prayer. Even though Jasmine is in constant spinning motion while she dances, she never finds herself dizzy because she is aligned with a higher purpose. As she’s passing each hoop through her body, she says, “Your prayers are being connected and lifted up. You’re not only telling a story through the designs of the hoop dance, but you’re also praying and healing the people who are in need at that time.”
For the school workshops, Jasmine will be collaborating with 9th and 10th graders in Kate Riley and Jeremy Harder’s classes. Education is central to her mission. From teaching kids and ensuring native traditions are not lost in today’s society, to bringing her audience on stage with her after her performances, she loves to share the hoop dance with everyone. As Jasmine says, “When you get done hoop dancing with me, you’re going to feel better. You’re going to go home and have a story to tell. You’re going to be able to share that story with your friends and family.”
In addition to the educational workshops there will be an in-school performance and a free, public performance at the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, December 6, at 7:30 p.m. Please join us in celebrating this inspirational and important artform.
BIG SKY, MT – OCT 2023. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.
No Man’s Land Film Festival (NMLFF), the premier adventure film festival for women and gender non-conforming athletes and storytellers, announces its 2023 World Tour succeeding its 8th Annual Flagship Film Festival. Presented by Mountain Hardwear with additional support from Black Diamond, NMLFF World Tour showcases 8 unique film programs and over 95 films.
“We are not your average film festival,” says Executive Director, Kathy Karlo. “While we hold firm to some mainstream elements, the stories we share embody a radical vision of hope and change - requiring an innovative format. Through the films presented, panel discussions, artist exhibits and musical guests, our 2023 lineup encourages a reexamination of how we manifest our personal culture within various communities. We recognize that a vital step to cultivating change is telling your story, which is a deeply vulnerable labor of love. Therefore, at all of our events and across the digital landscape, we aim to facilitate a container that is both ripe with inspiration and supportive to the process.”
Founded in 2015, NMLFF is an international voice for the underrepresented global majority - shaping an inclusive space in adventure, sport and film, while actively investing in BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Prioritizing equitable accessibility, NMLFF offers closed-captioning on all film programming. Despite the name, No Man’s Land encourages everyone to attend.
2023 EVENT INFORMATION:
Date: November 28, 2023 | Doors 6:30 p.m. | Showtime 7:00 p.m.
Location: Big Sky Waypoint | 50 Ousel Falls Rd., Big Sky, MT 59716
Admission: Tickets $10
Hosted By: Arts Council of Big Sky
Tickets & More Information: https://bigskyarts.org/events/no-mans-land-film-festival-2023
The Arts Council of Big Sky is proud to present the 26th annual Madrigal Dinner, slated for Monday, Dec. 4, at 5 p.m. in the Missouri Ballroom at Big Sky Resort. This event is considered by many as the traditional opening of the holiday season and is one of the highlights for the Big Sky community. The event is a joint production between the Arts Council and the Montana State University School of Music.
Tickets for the Madrigal Dinner can be purchased in advance for $80 per person, which includes a fantastic three-course dinner prepared by the chefs at Big Sky Resort, as well as festive music from the Montanans, the MSU Brass Quintet and Voices Luminis (ssaa). Please visit click here, to purchase tickets online. The event is usually sold out so tickets are by advanced online reservation only.
“The Madrigal dinner has become a Big Sky tradition since we started it more than 25 years ago,” said Arts Council Executive Director Brian Hurlbut. “We’re excited for a new venue this year, but of course all of the popular aspects of the event will remain.”
The evening begins with a no-host bar at 5 p.m., followed by seating for the dinner promptly at 6 p.m., in preparation for the Ceremonial Procession of the Lord and Lady of the Manor and their guests. Olde English customs are the theme throughout the evening, including fanfares introducing the Ceremonial Procession, the Wassail Bowl and Christmas Toast, the Boar’s Head Procession and the Flaming Pudding Dessert. The Montanans serenade guests throughout the evening and are joined by Voces Luminis (ssaa) for the concert finale. The dinner closes with the audience joining the musicians in singing familiar carols. This year marks the 59th annual Madrigal Dinner, produced by the MSU School of Music, and the 26th year the production has traveled to Big Sky.
The Arts Council of Big Sky is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing cultural and artistic performances to the Big Sky Area. For more information call 995-2742 or visit www.bigskyarts.org.
The Arts Council will again be kicking off Big Sky’s annual Haunted Peaks Halloween Festival on Friday, October 27, with the Skull and Roses Ball, a costume-themed event celebrating the music of the Grateful Dead. Performing this year will be 710 Ashbury, one of the region’s best and well-known Dead tribute bands.
The ball will be held at the Waypoint and doors will open at 9 p.m. Advance tickets are $30 and are now on sale at bigskyarts.org. Last year’s event sold out, and this year’s ball will again feature a costume contest with numerous prizes, themed drinks, swag giveaways and two sets of Grateful Dead music.
710 Ashbury is a four-piece band from Helena that is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Grateful Dead. The members of 710 are all long standing musicians in the Helena music scene and are all committed to improvisational music. The band features John Chart on guitar; Eric McEwan on keyboards; Chris Heisel on bass; and Tim Borsberry on the drums. The group has performed at venues including Pine Creek Lodge, Lewis and Clark Taproom, the Fillings Station, Miller’s Crossing, Chico Hot Springs and the Salmon River Festival in Idaho.
For more information and to purchase tickets click here.
The Arts Council is bringing the 26th annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival to Big Sky again this year. The festival is a celebration of short films and was established in 1998 on the streets of New York City. Today, it has transformed into a worldwide phenomenon.
The MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival screens ten compelling shorts in more than 500 cinemas simultaneously during the week of September 28 to October 8, 2023. MANHATTAN SHORT doesn’t have judges award the short films. Instead, they allow the audience to be the judge. The audience votes for their choice of Best Film and Best Actor. Then on the last day of the festival, the short films with the most votes are announced as the winners. MANHATTAN SHORT is for film lovers who want to experience unique and riveting stories from all around the world. Winners are announced on October 9.
The festival will be screening at the Waypoint on Tuesday, October 3, at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are $12 and can be purchased at https://events.eventgroove.com/event/Manhattan-Short-Film-Festival-Big-Sky-83901
The Arts Council of Big Sky will be hosting an opening reception on Monday, October 2, from 6-8 p.m. in the BASE Art Gallery. The reception is for the gallery’s newest exhibit featuring paintings from Sue Moncada, Carrie French and LeAnn Ramey. All of the artists will be present for the reception.
Susan Moncada returned to her Montana roots in 2017 after a 20-year absence. Following a career in Medical Laboratory Science, she abandoned her left brain self and has been working to develop her right brain muse. After several workshops with Bozeman artist Kara Tripp, she found palette knife technique to be the perfect medium for combining her love of vibrant color and rich textures. Studying with artists David Mensing and Robert Moore has provided inspiration for her landscapes, and her oil-based art captures the subject matter in a way that resembles a complex mosaic; an impressionistic whole made up of beautiful variegated parts.
Carrie French's work meanders along the border between representation and abstraction and reflects her impressions of place while examining the implications of a changing world. A native of Bozeman and graduate of MSU's School of Art, her color palette mirrors the Gallatin Valley's rivers, lakes, mountains and fields, while her imagery reaches for connection between spaces both urban and rural.
A native Nashvillian, LeeAnn Ramey worked as a graphic designer in the country music industry for over 25 years while also painting part-time. After relocating to Bozeman in 2014, she decided to pursue her passion for art and is a self-taught contemporary oil, acrylic, and mixed media painter. Ramey’s paintings are contemporary expressions of color and texture. She is curious by nature and loves the prospect of discovering something new when she paints — whether it’s experimenting with different mediums, paints, or subjects, she likes to have fun and explore. Her use of bold energetic colors and brushstrokes creates a fresh, vibrant and graphic quality in her paintings. LeeAnn is inspired by the beauty and wildlife found in Montana and enjoys painting abstracts, landscapes, animals and figures.
The exhibit can be seen in the Arts and Culture wing of the BASE Community Center. No BASE membership is needed to explore the exhibit, which will be open until December 1.
The Arts Council of Big Sky is pleased to host the 12th Annual Auction for the Arts event, to be held at the Grand Ballroom in the Montage in Big Sky on Thursday, February 22, 2024. We are currently seeking original artwork for our juried silent auction.
Proceeds from the Auction for the Arts allow the Arts Council of Big Sky to make arts programming accessible so everyone can participate in art classes, events, and community art installations.
As well as benefitting our community, the Auction for the Arts is a full-circle fundraiser that simultaneously creates an opportunity for amazing artists like yourself to earn income and connect with Big Sky buyers while also providing a critical revenue source for our organization.
Along with a silent auction, the Arts Auction includes a fixed-price “Luck of the Draw” art sale and quick-finish artwork that will be auctioned off in our live auction. Throughout the night, incredible food and drinks, live entertainment, and a paddle raise for accessible arts education will help create an amazing night. In the months leading up to the Auction for the Arts, public and private previews will be held throughout Big Sky. More details to come!
Through this call for art, we are seeking original artwork for our silent auction. While the fixed-price, live auction, and quick-finish artists are selected by invitation only, by applying to the silent auction, you will be added to our database and considered for next year. If you are interested or know someone who would be interested in participating in the Auction for the Arts, learn more and apply today by clicking the button below.
Thank you for helping create ARTS for ALL!
For questions or concerns, feel free to contact our Public Arts and Outreach Coordinator, Jesine Munson, at jesine@bigskyarts.org.
As part of The Adventure Circuit Film Festival Series, the Arts Council of Big Sky is bringing the 2023 Mountainfilm on Tour to Big Sky in partnership with the Big Sky Waypoint.
This year’s selection of culturally rich and adventure-packed films will leave you feeling inspired, with films about surfing, biking, running, skateboarding, climbing, and more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the festival starts at 7 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased at bigskyarts.org. After the films, there will be an opportunity to engage with expert-led panel curated to answer your questions about the topics in the films.
Inspired by Mountainfilm’s goal to inspire audiences to create a better world through film and art, the Arts Council is thrilled to add an extra special element this year. In addition to an incredible playlist of films, we will have a panel of experts from our community to answer your questions about disabilities, BIPOC, aging, LBGTQ+, diversity, and inclusion—topics covered in many of this year’s films. Questions will be anonymously collected throughout the film festival, and we will end the night with an opportunity to have our experts answer selected questions.
Mountainfilm began in 1979 and is one of America’s longest-running film festivals. The festival is best described by one word: inspiring. In addition to screening leading independent documentary films from around the world, the Telluride-based festival includes a full-day symposium on contemporary issues, art and photography exhibits, early morning coffee talks, outdoor programs, a book-signing party, an ice cream social, student programs and a closing picnic/awards ceremony. Each year after the festival, Mountainfilm on Tour hits the road sharing the year's most inspiring short films with communities worldwide. Mountainfilm on Tour shows are hosted by various organizations, outdoor retailers, schools and universities, theaters, local governments and individuals. Mountainfilm has been on tour since 1999, extending the festival's reach and delivering inspiring content to audiences around the world.
The Arts Council’s Adventure Circuit Series brings five major film events to Big Sky audiences each year, and is presented in partnership with Eastslope Outdoors. For more information or to buy tickets please visit bigskyarts.org.
The Arts Council of Big Sky is adding one more event to this summer’s Music in the Mountains free summer concert series. This one, however, will have a different—and louder—flavor than the rest of the music presented so far.
On Thursday, September 14, the Arts Council will present Metal in the Mountains, a free end-of-summer festival featuring three local heavy metal bands. The event includes Big Sky’s Scavenger as the headliner, with support from Belgrade’s Liquid Gnar and Big Sky’s own Stoneman’s Way, and will take place in Len Hill Park.
“We’ve been planning this for a few months and are super excited to announce this lineup to our Music in the Mountains series,” said Brian Hurlbut, the Arts Council’s Executive Director. “It will be great to showcase the area’s burgeoning heavy metal scene to a Big Sky audience.”
This year marks Scavenger’s 10-year anniversary since their first show at the Broken Spoke Bar in Big Sky. The riff-heavy metal band has played more than 150 shows since then at venues around Montana and beyond, showcasing their original material. Their first album, Cliff Manor, was released in 2018, and the quartet will release its second album later this year. The band members—which include Timmy Bowers on drums/vocals, Ben Blodgett on bass/vocals, Joey Mathis on guitar, and Brent Philippi on guitar/vocals—have been part of the Big Sky community for decades.
“We’ve seen many shows in the park and it’s very validating to us all to get to showcase our music on that same platform,” said Philippi. “We are aware people look at metal music differently, but we’re committed to staying true to ourselves artistically while at the same time changing a few minds when it comes to heavy metal music.”
Liquid Gnar is based out of Belgrade and recently won the Belgrade High School Battle of the Bands competition, which included groups from all over Gallatin Valley. The band is also performing at this year’s Rockin’ the Rivers Festival in Three Forks on August 12. The group’s latest single is Eye of the Sun.
Stoneman’s Way is a punk-influenced rock band based in Big Sky and Bozeman that released their debut album, Get It Right, earlier this year. The band frequently plays at venues around the area.
The park will open at 5 p.m., with Stoneman’s Way kicking things off at 5:30. Liquid Gnar will take the stage at 6:30, and Scavenger will start at 8 p.m. Like all Music in the Mountains concerts, the event is free, family friendly and there will be food and beverage trucks available. This event is presented by the Arts Council and the Rocks Tasting Room and Liquor Store with additional support from Big Sky Build, Herbaceous, and Liquid Death.
The Arts Council of Big Sky is seeking a dynamic, multifaceted and passionate individual to lead our growing nonprofit’s public art and community outreach programs. Part curator, part community impact specialist and part educator, the ideal candidate will have a strong interest in furthering the Arts Council’s mission of enriching our community through artistic experiences. Some specific responsibilities of this position include leading the successful execution of our ongoing Public Art, ARTventure, BASE Art Gallery, and Artist in Residence programs. In addition, this position will assist with the execution of our annual Arts Auction gala fundraiser event. This is a full-time position that may include working some nights and on certain weekends.
Duties and Responsibilities
Oversee all aspects of the ACBS Public Art program, including planning, artwork selection, installation, signage, maintenance and other logistics; manage Public Art Committee
● Oversee power/utility box wrap project from artwork selection to installation
● Implementing the approved ACBS Public Art Plan and evaluating/updating it on an annual basis
● Collaboration with key stakeholders on the ACBS public art plan and vision
● Work with Development Director on grant opportunities when needed
● Work with Art Selection Committee on planning Auction for the Arts Call for Art and seek artists/artwork for auction
● Manage artwork selection and acquisition process, including communicating with artists about selection status and making selections with Auction Committee
● Work with other staff on event planning and execution as needed
● Solicitate, curate and install a rotating series of exhibits in the BASE art gallery (four/year)
· Coordinate opening artist receptions and other marketing events related to gallery
● Oversee ARTventure program, including Seattle field trip and youth art activities
● Implement annual artist-in-residence program in collaboration with local school
● Implement Discover Dance outreach program with local elementary school
● Assist Event Coordinator in planning and executing annual Big Sky Artisan Festival
● Schedule and facilitate Mountainfilm in the Schools program with local school district
● Oversee any projects with art acquisition component
● Explore opportunities for new educational, outreach, and public art programs
● Lead community engagement and outreach efforts when appropriate
● Assist with marketing of education, outreach, and public art events; other events/programs as needed, including social media posts, pamphlets, posters, and other collateral materials
● Participate in other program fundraising activities/events as assigned by Executive Director
● Attend Executive Board and general Board of Directors meetings when needed
● Attend and assist with ACBS events as needed
● Participate in continuing professional education when appropriate
Required Qualifications
· Bachelor’s Degree in related field (Arts, Education, Communication, Management, Planning, etc.)
· Demonstrated experience managing projects from start to finish, including budgeting and impact valuation
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.) and familiar with Mac OS
· Ability to work flexible/additional hours when needed
· High attention to detail and organization
· Ability to work in a collaborative, small-office setting
· Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills
· Knowledge of social media marketing
· Willing to take initiative and problem solve independently.
Preferred Qualifications
• Previous experience working for a nonprofit or similar organization
• Previous experience working in an arts-related setting, including public art, museum/gallery curation and/or arts education
• General graphic design skills (InDesign/Photoshop, etc.)
Salary/Benefits: The Arts Council strives to provide competitive wages for all employees, and this position has a starting salary of $55,000/year. Position includes a health insurance and cell phone stipend in addition to annual salary, as well as a flexible PTO policy and scheduling. Position is in Big Sky, Montana, and takes place in the Arts Council office in the BASE Community Center, hybrid option will be considered for the right candidate.. We offer a great, flexible and fun working environment.
About the Arts Council of Big Sky: The Arts Council of Big Sky (formerly the Big Sky Association for the
Arts) was founded in 1989 to provide artistic and cultural experiences to Big Sky residents and visitors.
We’ve grown to be one of the leading non-profit arts organizations in Southwest Montana by combining
our ability to produce high-quality events with our desire to make Big Sky an art-centric community. Our
mission is to provide residents, visitors, and artists with premier events, education and creative
opportunities in the Arts. Our vision is for Big Sky to remain a beautiful place where the expression,
enjoyment and education of the Arts will inspire and sustain a healthy and vibrant community. Our key
efforts include presenting music, film and theater events; offering art workshops and educational
programs for people of all ages; and establishing a lasting and impactful public art program in our
community. We’re an organization that has a long and proud history – nearly 35 years – but we feel like
we’re only getting started. The future is bright for the arts in Big Sky and we’re looking for like-minded
folks who want to join our team and be a part of this vision.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement: At the Arts Council of Big Sky we want everyone interacting with our organization to feel valued and respected. We’re committed to modeling diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in our community through our programming, policy, and practice to help maintain an environment where everyone can feel welcomed, valued, respected, and safe.
If you would like to apply for this position, please email a current resume, a cover letter on why the arts are important and why you would be a good fit, and three references to brian@bigskyarts.org. Position open until filled.
Arts Council of Big Sky • PO Box 160308 • 285 Simkins Drive #117 • Big Sky, MT 59716
406.995.2742 • bigskyarts.org
Arts Council of Big Sky presents the 2023/2024 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival at the Big Sky Waypoint in Big Sky on Tuesday, June 13th, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and films at 7:30 p.m.
Next up on The Adventure Circuit is the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival. Eight films from the 2023 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival will be shown, including films about mountain biking, rock climbing, big mountain skiing, trekking, hiking, paddling and hot air ballooning. The eight films are “Georgie Astle: Flip the Swtich,” “Continuum,” “Free Rider,” “El Gavilán,” “Walking on Clouds,” “Walking on Clouds,” “Lil Buddha,” “Mandatory Gear,” and “Kumari: A Father’s Dream. The films range in length from 2 minutes to 34 minutes. We are positive these inspiring and adventure-filled films will captivate you!
Since 1998, the VIMFF has evolved from a three-day event at one venue with an audience of 1,700 to an all year round series of events including a 10-day festival in February, a second festival in November and several online monthly shows throughout the year. Programming includes live presentations, films, photography, and international film and photo competitions. The combined Festival events now attract more than 24,000 annual viewers around the world. Each year, the VIMFF takes award-winning and other selected films on tour across Canada, the United States and around the world. It gives local communities the chance to enjoy some of the world’s best mountain films right in their hometown.
Tickets are $10 each or you can buy a pass to all four Adventure Circuit Films!
The Arts Council's annual Big Sky Artisan Festival will return to the Town Center this summer, coming to Len Hill Park in the Big Sky Town Center on Saturday, July 22, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The festival features a wide variety of artist mediums such as painting, photography, pottery, jewelry, and other fine handmade products. Food and drink vendors will also be on site.
If you are interested in being a vendor we are now accepting artist applications for the 2023 Artisan Festival! Artist applications will be reviewed and accepted at the end of every month beginning in February and ending on May 25th, 2023. Applications are accepted on a first come first served basis so apply early. Find the application here.
The Big Sky Artisan Festival is a celebration of fine artisans and craftspeople in beautiful Big Sky, Montana. A gateway town to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky is a popular tourist destination and offers world class fly fishing, amazing hiking and outdoor recreation, fine dining and shopping, and the renowned Big Sky ski resort. Aside from being a recreational hub, Big Sky has grown into a center of arts and culture in southwest Montana.
The income generated from artist fees and donations during the Artisan Festival help us sustain our art education programs!
Mark your calendars for June 22, 2023! We'll kick off the 15th season of our Music in the Mountains free concert series in Len Hill Park in the Big Sky Town Center. For more than a decade, Music in the Mountains has been Montana’s finest free outdoor concert series, featuring the best up and coming touring musicians in the country as well as established, well-known artists. Our state-of-the-art venue provides the perfect backdrop for locals and visitors to come together and enjoy incredible live music under the Big Sky. These family-friendly concerts are held every Thursday from June-September starting at 6 p.m. (park opens at 6, music starts at 6:30 with an opening band), and the series also includes our annual July 4 concert and the Bravo! Big Sky Classical Music Festival.
We'll be announcing this summer's lineup at our annual launch party in early May...stay tuned for more information!
The Arts Council hosted its 11th annual Auction for the Arts fundraiser on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at the Montage Resort in Big Sky. This year’s event is presented by Lone Mountain Land Company, Big Sky Real Estate and Montage.
More than 250 art buyers, artists and patrons packed the Montage Grand Ballroom for an evening of art, music, food, drink and friendship. During the paddle raise part of the live auction, nearly $50,000 was donated by our generous constituents--which was generously matched by an anonymous donors, resulting in $100,000 being raised for our Contribute What You Can Arts Education Program! We sincerely thank all you showed their support!
Nearly 90 pieces of art were purchased in our silent and live auctions, with a percentage of the proceeds supporting the Arts Council's annual operating costs.
More information about the auction and a full schedule of events can be found online at bigskyarts.org. The Arts Council of Big Sky is a non-profit organization founded in 1988, whose mission is to enrich our community through artistic experiences. For questions about the auction, please call (406) 995-2742 or visit bigskyarts.org.