UW Art Museum Hosts Annual Holiday Events

Jingling bells, sparkling lights and paintbrushes set the scene for the University of Wyoming Art Museum’s annual holiday events Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 4-6. All events are free and open to the public.

The “Festival of Trees” and silent auction, featuring more than 25 trees and holiday items decorated by members of the community, is Thursday, Dec. 4. During the “Lighting of the Trees” reception from 6-8 p.m., visitors can enjoy music and refreshments. Participants can vote for the People’s Choice Award. Attendees also may place advance bids on their favorite tree during the silent auction.

The silent auction continues Friday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and ends Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2:30 p.m. Bidders need not be present to win, and all proceeds benefit museum programs and children’s art classes.

“Happy Holidays, Laramie!” is Saturday, Dec. 6, from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. It features music and dance performances by school and community groups; appearances by Santa Claus and “Pinkerbell”; and refreshments. The opening celebration for an exhibition of artwork by Albany County School District students also is scheduled. Art can be viewed through Dec. 20.

Children are invited to have their picture taken with Santa Claus, and to create their own ornaments, cards and other holiday decorations in the Shelton Studio. The winner of the People’s Choice Award, as chosen by voters Thursday evening, will be announced.

“This event is our premier community celebration,” says Wendy Bredehoft, UW Art Museum education curator. “It is a time when entire families come together to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays and the creative talents of so many, which are exhibited in the student artwork, the performances and the decorated trees.”

“Happy Holidays, Laramie!” and “Festival of Trees” are sponsored by Bank of the West; Dr. John McPherson DDS PC; Donna Emery with Advantage Real Estate; Warren Federal Credit Union; Westfahl’s Piano Co.; and McDonald’s.

For more information, call the Art Museum at (307) 766-6622, visit the website at www.uwyo.edu/artmuseum, or follow UW Art Museum on Facebook and Instagram.

Through its "Museum as Classroom" approach, the UW Art Museum places art at the center of learning for all ages. The museum is located in the Centennial Complex at 2111 Willett Drive. Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays. Admission is free.