U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIORBUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
BLM Idaho's Artist-in-Residence Program
Artists see beauty and virtue in the natural places that are promised to future generations of Americans by the management practices of the BLM. They also look closely at the way the world works, notice things that others may miss, challenge ideas, experiment, and create new ways to perceive the world. The BLM's Artist-in-Residence (AIR) participants are encouraged to use these skills in depicting the variety of cultural and natural resources on BLM lands, including historic structures, artifacts, cultural landscapes, geologic features, and plant and animal life. These artists "translate" the resources--the heart of BLM's mission--into images, objects, and performances that bring others enjoyment and a deeper understanding of the public lands. The AIR Program creates a structure to share the scenic beauty and unique stories of the BLM’s landscapes with the public through the world of art. See the national showcase of work created by artists in the last two years.
The Program is inspired by a long history of artists and conservationists supporting our public lands. Artists provide a catalyst for developing connections to these treasured landscapes by promoting stewardship and deep appreciation for these special places across our Nation. The American public can look back at a rich legacy of early conservationists who inspired an awareness of the value of public lands such as John Muir, Gifford Pinchot, and Stephen Mather. Their awareness was shared by creative artists such as Thomas Moran, Albert Bierstadt, Thomas Hill, Ansel Adams, Maynard Dixon, and more recently, Ken Burns.
Idaho's Artist in Residence Program
In 2014, Idaho BLM hosted three artists-in-residence in Southern Idaho. This area features some unique and dramatic landscapes, including winding rivers, deep canyons, vast areas of sagebrush steppe habitat, and hidden springs and waterfalls, provided inspiration to our artists. Learn more.
FREE POSTERS featuring artist work now available at BLM offices!