Calling artists for a short-term residency and artwork donation for


Open AIR’s Annual Art Auction and Fundraiser!

Artists are invited to apply for an

Open AIR Residency at the Western Montana Fair, August 6-11th.

Artists may also apply to donate an artwork to the auction. Please see the FAQs for more information.

Applications Due May 15th!

How it works: Artists apply! (No application fee). Once selected, artists are invited to create artwork inspired by the idea of the Fair, the Western Montana Fairgrounds, and the many activities, cultures and components that make up the Fair. Artists may begin creating work before the official residency. During the Western Montana State Fair artists are invited to be ‘in-residence’ and are invited to participate in behind-the-scenes opportunities, creating artwork as part of their experience. At the end of their residency, artists donate a piece of artwork to be auctioned off at the Open AIR Annual Fundraiser on September 21st held at the Missoula Fairgrounds.

Indigenous Artists: Open AIR is committed to supporting Indigenous artists and creative practices. Indigenous Artists are strongly encouraged to apply!

Timeline:

May 15th - Applications due

June 1st - Artists are notified of their selection.

June 19th - 11 am - Visit Missoula County Fairgrounds for an initial tour.

August 6-11 - Western Montana State Fair

August 26th - Deadline to provide details about the donated artwork.

September 2nd - Shipped artworks from artists due. Please ship to Open AIR HQ at 250 W Sussex Ave, Missoula, MT. 59801

September 9th - Delivery of works to Open AIR HQ in Missoula.

September 9-20th, Artist Exhibition. Open to the public exhibition, location TBD.

September 21, 5-8 pm - Over the Moon, Open AIR’s Annual Fundraiser and Art Auction at the Commercial Building at the Missoula County Fairgrounds.

Western Montana Fair. 1914

Western Montana Fair. 1915/16

Western Montana Fair. 1915/16

We are inviting you to create work inspired by the fair that will then be auctioned as part of our 2024 fundraiser. Based on the nature of your studio practice, artists can work in advance with concepts connected to the fair/fairgrounds. Artists may choose to work directly at the fairgrounds during the residency or make work in their studio based on inspiration from the residency experience.

All work donated should connect in someway to the theme or spirit of the fair.

Fair Themes: We encourage artists to consider a range of topics connected to place. While some may be drawn to the physical space of the fairgrounds, county fairs are deeply rooted in local traditions and community spirit. Often they focus on themes celebrating agricultural heritage, community achievements and local culture. We encourage artists to consider such themes in the artwork they produce. Some examples include:

  • Agricultural Excellence: Celebrating the agricultural roots of the community, including livestock, farming practices, and gardening, with competitions for the best animals, fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products.

  • Community and Togetherness: Serving as a gathering place for community members to connect, enjoy shared interests and celebrate local culture and achievements together.

  • Educational Opportunities: Offering educational exhibits and demonstrations for children and adults on topics such as farming techniques, animal care, sustainability practices and more.

  • Local Cuisine and Food Production: Highlighting local food traditions, agricultural products and culinary competitions (e.g., pie baking contests). County fairs often feature a variety of food stands selling traditional and innovative local fare.

  • Craftsmanship and Artistry: Showcasing local artisans and crafters through exhibits and competitions in areas like quilting, woodworking, photography and painting, celebrating the creative talents within the community.

  • Entertainment and Recreation: Providing entertainment through live music, carnival rides, games, rodeos, tractor pulls and other amusements suited to all age groups.

  • Youth Development: Including events and competitions hosted by organizations like 4-H and FFA, which focus on developing skills in agriculture, leadership and community service among young people.

  • Conservation and Sustainability: Educating on topics related to environmental stewardship, conservation practices in agriculture and sustainable living, reflecting growing awareness and concern for these issues within local communities.

  • Economic and Trade Opportunities: Offering a platform for local businesses, artisans and farmers to sell and promote their products, contributing to the local economy and providing visitors with unique local goods.

  • Heritage and Tradition: Celebrating the history and traditions of the local area and its people, including historical displays, traditional crafts and storytelling sessions that connect current generations with their past.

County fairs act as a microcosm of the community, reflecting its values, interests and traditions, while also serving as a bridge that connects the rural and urban parts of the county. Through these themes, county fairs continue to be a vital part of celebrating and sustaining local culture and community spirit. This year the Western Montana State Fair theme is ‘Lasso the Moon’ and includes a focus on themes of technology, the future, agriculture and creativity.