An extraordinary exhibition of vintage 1871 William Henry Jackson albertypes, the first printed depictions the territory that would become Yellowstone National Park, are now on exhibition at the Teton County Library. Albertypes are an engraving process invented in 1868, notable for their distinctive, gentle gray tones. They were, says the Library, hailed as “closely approaching the fidelity of a silver-based albumen photograph.” Jackson was the official photographer for Ferdinand Hayden’s heralded 1871 exploration of the Yellowstone Plateau.
Edward Bierstadt (brother of Albert Bierstadt), was entrusted with nearly half of Jackson’s valuable negatives, which were produced in quantity, and used in the congressional effort to establish Yellowstone as our first national park.
“However, for unknown reasons Hayden abandoned using the alberttype process and had Mr. Jackson continue to make his albumen photographs instead,” says the Library. “The total number of sets produced in Bierstadt’s project is not definitively known, but a Jackson scholar knows of only seven experimental sets in existence. This exhibit’s sequential views begin at the railhead in Utah, progress north into Montana, document numerous features in Yellowstone, and then conclude with the return to Utah.”
Lee Silliman, a large format photographer of Yellowstone National Park, curated the exhibit. Silliman is a true Yellowstone scholar, and he will give a talk on this rare and special collection on Monday, July 15th, 6-7:30 pm, at the library’s Ordway Auditorium. This event is free. For information contact Adult Humanities Coordinator, Oona Doherty, 733-2164 ext. 135, [email protected]
I’m writing this post with one hand, and making a note in my calendar with the other!
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It’s time to nominate your favorite arts supporter for 2013’s “Award for Creativity.” Presented by the Cultural Council of Jackson Hole, the award recognizes individuals enhancing Jackson’s creativity. Nominees can be, and have included, professionals, volunteers, artists, writers, non-profit staffers, and arts patrons.
“The Award for Creativity is a heartfelt award given to those that exhibit dedication and extraordinary contributions to our artistic and cultural community,” says the Cultural Council.
Two awards are given. The “Creative Legacy Award” goes to an individual who has shown a life-long dedication to the arts in our community, “one whose impact has resonated repeatedly through the years.” The “Creative Pulse Award” recognizes an “inspirational and invigorating trendsetter, introducing fresh programs and projects.”
NOTE: The nomination process has changed. Phone interviews will now be conducted with recommending individuals. Submit your nomination by Friday, June 28 to [email protected] Include your name, phone number, email, and the name of the person you are nominating. The Cultural Council of Jackson Hole Coordinator will contact you to obtain more information. www.culturalcounciljh.org
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I have this work on Facebook, and quizzed my connections as to who painted it—by the time this post goes up, the artist’s identity may have been revealed. The artist is from Jackson, and this work deviates VERY much from the painter’s usual style. Even so, the work was sold while I was visiting with the artist.
This abstract scene, created near Mt. Moran, was painted by plein air painter and Trio Fine Art artist Bill Sawczuck! Very cool, Bill! You really stumped them! www.triofineart.com
Tammy Christel 
