News Release

Artist in Residence Programs July 2024

Mike Hansen in his studio.

NPS

News Release Date: June 24, 2024

Contact: Christy Fleming, 3075485406

The second of four Artists In Residence (AIR), Mike Hansen will be presenting four presentations in the month of July, three in the Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center in Lovell, WY and one Plein Air presentation at the Ewing/Snell Ranch. “I am excited to bring people to the park and share with them what I have learned,” Mike said.

In his early life, Mike was an avid outdoorsman.. Hunting, Fishing, and riding his bike were his passions. In the 90’s he started noticing that he couldn’t keep up with his hunting buddy’s and knew something was wrong. After six months of testing he found out that he had multiple sclerosis, a disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord. Mike has worked to keep his connection to the outdoors, even though he experiences it much differently now. Painting is one of the ways he connects. His paintings are inspired by his memories of the outdoors and Wyoming’s Wildlife. Mentored by 2014 Bighorn Canyon AIR Denny Neville, Mike continues to improve his work. Visitors who join Mike at one of his programs may get a two for one art experience as Denny may come out to paint with his friend.

The following are the dates and location visitors can paint with or just talk with Mike:

7/4 – “Who is Mike?” at the Lovell Visitor Center from 9AM to 12PM.

7/13 – “From photo to painting” at the Lovell Visitor Center from 9AM to 12PM.

7/19 – “Learning about Composition” at the Lovell Visitor Center from 9AM to 12PM.

7/27 – “Light and Atmosphere Plein Air” at the Ewing/Snell ranch 9AM to 11PM.

All AIR activities are free and open to all ages and abilities. Bighorn Canyon hopes you can join us for one or more of these programs. If you have questions call the Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center at 307-548-5406.