Over the years, the work of numerous artists has
focused the eye of the public on national parks. Thomas Moran’s
paintings helped swing the debate for protecting Yellowstone
National Park. Ansel Adams’ photographs continue to introduce new
generations of Americans to the beauty of Yosemite and Sequoia
national parks. And Ann Zwinger’s writings and sketches on the
Grand Canyon bring to life the river and rocks that many of us have
only dreamed about.
To keep this interplay of
parks and artists alive, the National Park Service offers an
Artist-In-Residence Program in many park units throughout the West.
For one week to one month, writers, journalists, musicians,
composers, painters, photographers and dancers work for a minimal
stipend and lodging with some of the most spectacular scenery in
the nation. Artists at Rocky Mountain National Park stay at the
rustic three-room William Allen White Cabin which overlooks Moraine
Park.
Other Western parks and monuments hosting
artists include Big Bend, Devils Tower, Glacier, Rocky Mountain,
Joshua Tree and Yosemite.
If there’s a string
attached, it’s a small one: Artists are asked to contribute a
sample of their work produced at the park and give an educational
interpretive show on their art to the public.
For
further information on the Artist-In-Residence Program, contact
Bonnie Fournier, P.O. Box 65552, St. Paul, MN 55165, e-mail
bonnief@artswire.org or call 651/776-3944.
© 2001 HCN and John Rosapepe
This article appeared in the print edition of the magazine with the headline Get artsy in the parks.
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.
