An Artful Draw

Those who know Jackson Hole (or the arts) look forward to autumn’s arrival and the transformation of this boots-upon-boardwalks ski town into a world-class showcase of artistic talent. Now in its 32nd year, the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival impresses both locals and visitors alike with the art of the West for an all- too-brief 10 days in September. This little town that likes to go big dazzles with events that hold broad appeal for lovers of art and design.

LAYING THE GROUNDWORK

The Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce, the mastermind behind the FAF, cements its annual theme with the selection of a featured artist and one of his or her original artworks. This piece then inspires the event poster, a collectible and much-coveted souvenir for many attendees. Western art fans will most certainly appreciate this year’s featured artist, Edward Aldrich. The renowned oil painter depicts the majesty of the Rockies and celebrates the fauna that call this terrain home. His rich use of color and light remind wildlife art aficionados, once more, why this genre remains so beguiling.

Chair by Buffalo Collection.

Cape by Wearable Art by Jae Song.

Necklace by Beltshazzar Jewels.

OUTSIDE OF THE [WESTERN] BOX

For a peek into design innovation, the Western Design Conference Exhibit + Sale has you covered. Chances to browse, shop, and stimulate the design sense are ample, as the WDC Exhibit + Sale stretches over four days and includes multiple events. The always sold-out Opening Preview Party + Fashion Show gives the public a chance to interact with the many artisans on hand, and to preview and purchase their work during a festive night of entertainment, food, signature cocktails, and shopping. The signature fashion show unveils the latest couture on the runway.

Guests browse the art inside Tayloe Piggott Gallery during Palates & Palettes.

More than $19,000 in awards is given out annually for excellence in design to 130-plus artists selected each year by the WDC jury. The one-of-a-kind, museum-quality work showcased ranges from cowboy to contemporary: Be prepared to be wowed. Original pieces on display include accents for the home, fashion, jewelry, and furniture. A great deal of this work can be acquired through the WDC’s Designer Show House—six rooms curated by prominent interior designers, featuring practical application of many of the juried artists’ beautifully crafted items. The addition of the WDC’s Retail Row represents a bonus shopping experience at the Snow King Center venue.

Taste of the Tetons.

For 24 years the WDC Exhibit + Sale has been uniting collectors and artists on a non-commission basis while presenting unique work to the public that is galvanized by themes of the American West.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Occurring early in the festival, the Palates & Palettes Gallery Walk pairs the art found within the galleries that line the Jackson Town Square with the work that is being accomplished by local culinary artists. This first night exploring the gallery scene is a crowd favorite, but beware—the food moves fast, and requires a pace quicker than a meander.

If you find your desire for plated artistry unsated, the Taste of the Tetons will serve your craving for more. Scheduled on the FAF’s first Sunday, this flavorful experience takes place on the Town Square in conjunction with the juried art fair, Takin’ It to the Streets. Held simultaneously, these two outdoor events are the perfect way to spend a fall Sunday in Jackson.

In the true fashion of the West, the Fall Arts Festival ends with a showdown: The QuickDraw Art Sale and Auction in the Square challenges artists to create a finished work in the span of 90 minutes. The pieces are then auctioned off to a captivated crowd, who will also be there to witness the sale of Edward Aldrich’s original work. This final ritual gives one lucky collector the ultimate takeaway from Jackson Hole’s annual Fall Arts Festival.

If every season signifies a return or shift of some kind, then surely there can be no better way to usher in an artful, community- centered fall.

Table by David Stein Woodworking.