Jagged peaks spring from the valley floor; turquoise waters lay shrouded in steam, trapped within golden mineral prisms; canyons tear through rock and root, opening the earth to roaring waters that rush through its plummeting cliff walls. When Thomas Moran and his companions in the 1871 Hayden Expedition first set out for what is today Yellowstone National Park, their goal was to gather proof of this legendary landscape to help advocate for its protection and preservation. Crucial to the establishment of our nation’s first national park, the images that captured our surroundings, dramatic in both scale and scope, helped to ignite western migration, resulting in the America we know today.
Since then, painters and photographers have flocked to Jackson Hole to try their hand at bringing the iconic, grand American West to life. With glittering aspen trees and swaying prairie grasses gently framing our sky-piercing peaks, turquoise prisms, and earth-torn canyons, our valley shimmers in golden hues throughout the month of September, offering a backdrop to inspire artists and voyers alike. From September 7th-18th, join us in celebrating art inspired by our stunning surroundings during Jackson’s annual Fall Arts Festival.
Wednesday, September 7th: Wine & Art
Kick off Fall Arts Festival at the Wort Hotel. Grab a glass of Jackson Hole Winery wine and peruse jewelry inspired by the mountain west.
September 8th-11th: Western Design Conference
Savor local flavors from Provisions JH and get a first glance at this year’s fantastic spread of designers at the Western Design Conference’s Preview Party and Fashion Show on Thursday, September 8th. For the rest of the weekend, be sure to swing by the Snow King Center for direct access to over 100 of the nation’s finest western designers. For more detailed information, visit the Western Design Conference website.
Friday, September 9th: Palates & Palettes
Spoil your senses with artfully curated bites, libations, and of course artwork, as you hop through Jackson’s many wonderful art galleries. Free of charge, this is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Saturday, September 10th-15h: Western Visions
Stop by the National Museum of Wildlife Art for the opening of its Western Visions exhibition. Don’t forget to join for the museum’s longest running fundraiser on September 15th to rub elbows with the world’s finest wildlife art collectors and artists.
Sunday, September 11th: Arts on the Green
Shop artwork, jewelry, and pottery from over 50 of Jackson’s local artists on the Center for the Arts Lawn. With live music and libations, it’s a great Sunday Funday activity for the whole family!
Friday, September 16th: Jackson Hole Showcase of Homes & Jackson Hole Art Auction
Sign up to join in on self-guided tours to some of Jackson’s most stunning homes. Not feeling snoopy? Dive into the heart of Wild Western Art at the 16th Annual Art Auction at the Center for the Arts.
Saturday, September 17th: Quick Draw
One of the most anticipated events of the year, watch as internationally renowned artists create masterpieces in Town Square in just 90 minutes! Even more exciting, their pieces are then auctioned off live while still wet!
Sunday, September 18th: Sunday Art Brunch
Say goodbye to Fall Arts Festival with brunch, bloody marys, and mimosas at select galleries around town, and get excited for next year!
WildWalls
You may notice a collection of murals integrated into our town’s cityscape while out and about. A collaboration between artists and local scientists, this interactive gallery tells stories of our ecology. Download the app and take a unique tour through the heart of our town.
While there’s no shortage of western art to take in while in town, one of the most exciting outcomes of this naturally inspiring landscape is the array of interpretations and artistic expressions that spring from our surroundings. Whether or not you make it in time for the Fall Arts Festival, be sure to take advantage of our thriving arts scene while you’re in town.
