Art auction celebrates Crown of the Continent
Published: September 3, 2008
Celebrate the “Crown of the Continent,” the most biologically intact ecosystem remaining in the lower 48 states, with a juried art show and live and silent art auctions, 5-8 p.m. Sept. 28 at MCT Center for the Performing Arts in Missoula.
More than 50 artists from throughout the West share works in all media inspired by the Crown of the Continent, the 10-million-acre international ecosystem that includes the Bob Marshall-Great Bear-Scapegoat Wilderness Complex, Canada's Castle Wilderness, the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, plus large blocks of unprotected public lands and critically important private lands.
The event also features a presentation by Ralph Waldt, author of the highly acclaimed photo/essay album Crown of the Continent. Formerly with the Nature Conservancy, Waldt led over 1,400 interpretive hikes and has walked or snow-shoed over 10,000 miles within the Crown ecosystem. His presentation includes stories and photographs from these wilderness travels.
Proceeds from the event help the Swan Ecosystem Center continue its stewardship of the Swan Range and Mission Mountains Wilderness, and aid Alpine Artisan’s efforts to promote cultural and geo-tourism in western Montana. The two organizations have worked closely with National Geographic over the past two years to produce the newly released Crown of the Continent map and website (www.crownofthecontinent.net).
Suggested donation to the event, which includes free hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, is $15; for details, call Swan Ecosystem Center, 406-754-3137, or Alpine Artisans, 406-793-5706.
