Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Cody, WY
September 17-18
David Santillanes, Rhythm of Winter , oil, 20 x 36.
This September, the Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale is fully back in the saddle after hosting a limited in-person event in 2020. Marking its 40th year in scenic Cody, WY, the 2021 show is sure to be a blockbuster, with more than 110 artworks up for sale in the West’s only live auction that exclusively features contemporary artists.
The auction takes place on Friday, September 17. The popular Quick Draw & Brunch—a four-hour live painting-and-sculpting session followed by a sale of the newly created works—follows on Saturday, September 18. Additional opportunities to purchase works include Scout’s Miniature Sale, featuring smaller and more affordable pieces, and the Buy It Now Sale, featuring paintings and sculptures donated by the artists in support of the museum.
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- Campbell Dosch, Apsaalooke, bronze, 37 x 18 x 12.
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- Bruce Graham, Go With the Flow, oil, 16 x 12.
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- Mark McKenna, The Posse, oil, 48 x 36.
On the block during the live auction are numerous stylistic interpretations of the American West in a range of media, from oil and pastel to bronze and stone. “All of our artists work hard to bring their best pieces for the patrons who attend,” says Kathy Thompson, who has been directing the show and sale for 15 years. “It’s an invitation-only exhibition, and the artists are selected by a committee who carefully look at each person’s body of work. I ask for at least 10 new artists each year to keep the show fresh and bring new energy.” The show is often a near sell-out, with just a small fraction of the works still available after it’s all over.
Taking the podium to lead the bidding is seasoned western art auctioneer Troy Black. “What makes Troy special to us is his personal relationship with the artists and the patrons,” says Thompson. “This is a high-energy live auction, and the patrons come ready to bid to support the artists, the Center of the West, and the Cody Chamber of Commerce, which produces the show.”
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- Terry Cooke Hall, Midnight Cowboy, mixed media, 36 x 36.
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- Dustin Payne, Comanche Ways, bronze, 16 x 18 x 7.
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- T. Allen Lawson, The Fence Inspector, oil, 14 x 14.
Artworks are available for online viewing now, and the show is on display at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West beginning August 19. Works in the auction may be purchased in person or via phone, absentee, or online bidding.
And while virtual options are available for some of the events, according to Thompson, the best ticket is the one that brings art lovers to town. “Cody rolls out the red carpet every year, and we give all who attend a great time, great food, and lots of education and entertainment,” she says. “Cody is a small town in the Rockies with a big heart and welcoming attitude.” –Allison Malafronte
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- Michael Blessing, Awaiting the Prodigal’s Return, oil, 36 x 30.
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- Jim Bortz, Chasing Light, Brown Trout, oil, 30 x 24.
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- Kevin Red Star, Evening Parade Rider, mixed media, 60 x 48.
contact information
307.587.5002
www.rendezvousroyale.org
This story appeared in the August/September 2021 issue of Southwest Art magazine.