The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport Board of Directors unanimously selected my bison bench titled “Sojourn” to be placed permanently in the airport. The life-size bench was originally carved in black walnut before being cast in a limited edition of 5 bronzes. Two of the sculptures, plus the original woodcarving are in private collections outside the state and one sculpture was purchased for a museum in Arizona. The bison bench is a wonderful public sculpture – made extra popular since it is a bench - offering an invitation to react with the sculpture. People sit, touch and pose for photos – creating a truly memorable experience and an inviting first impression of Bozeman and Montana for first-time travelers.

As the first female artist selected to place art permanently at the airport, I feel honored. When I entered Mrs. Orr's kindergarten class at Longfellow School in Bozeman more-then-many-moons-ago, I had plans to be an artist. What an opportunity to have a sculpture inspired by an experience in Yellowstone National Park and created locally actually be placed here - since all of my major pieces have gone to collections outside Montana. The sculpture was particularly labor-intensive to cast but they have captured every chisel mark and even the beauty of the wood grain. The sculpture is ready to install. The Danforth in Livingston is the Fiscal Sponsor for the Bison Bench project. The benefit is two-fold since support for my project at the airport will also help support Park County Friends of the Arts in Livingston, a 501 (c)(3) organization. PCFA (Danforth) will receive a percentage of the funds processed through the organization to help their mission. PCFA's mission is "to nurture the creation and awareness of art by providing opportunities for contemporary artists and by offering innovative outreach programs, so that our community—especially our youth—can realize the importance of art in their lives." The Gallatin Yellowstone International Airport is the most popular airport in Montana. A bronze plaque will be placed near the piece with the opportunity to script whatever the donors/patrons wish. Only a few donor slots remain (contact me if you would like to know more).