Ucross Founders Day

Around 300 people enjoyed the warm, sunny day at the grounds of the Ucross Foundation and Art Gallery on Saturday, June 1, for the third annual Founders’ Day celebration, honoring founder Raymond Plank. Plank envisioned Ucross as a multi-disciplinary laboratory for creative thinking, where artists, ranchers, tourist and locals could gather to exchange ideas.

William Belcher, President, had this to say about Ucross.

During Founders Day, guests were welcome to tour the historic Big Red Ranch House, built in the late 19th century. It is one of the oldest standing structures in Sheridan County and is included in the National Registry of Historic Places and now houses staff offices.

Attendees could also visit the studios of various artists in residence. This year eight artists graciously opened their studios to display their work and visit with the guests. There was music by two members of the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra, Jane Ann Hamman, principal harpist and Megan Karls, concertmaster and violinist, he was joined by her husband, singer-songwriter David Raba.

Raba talked about his music and preforming at Ucross this year. He lives in Great Falls Montana and has been doing music off and on for about 20 years. He plays a resonating guitar and writes and performs his own songs.

Karls talked about being at Ucross for the event.

The event started at 11 a.m., and there was lunch on the grounds available at Pete Za’s food truck and the Ucross Cafe. At 1 p.m. there was an opening of the newest art exhibit, Wyoming Women to Watch, but that will be another story.