Artist in Residence program showcases Missouri Breaks paintings

By Bureau of Land Management

Whether you have already explored the Upper Missouri Breaks' majestic formations or you have yet to float the river, you won't want to miss the chance to take home a piece of it.

People are invited to join the U.S. Bureau of Land Management on June 25 at 1:30 p.m. at the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument Interpretive Center in Fort Benton for the second showing by renowned Artist in Residence Paul Tunkis.

His artwork will be on display, including his piece depicting LaBarge Rock, which was selected as the National Artist in Residence poster image for the BLM in 2016.

  All of Tunkis's paintings that will be on display were made on his trip through the monument. They depict the stunning geography and wildlife that can be seen throughout the monument, as well as across the Montana landscape. Tunkis will recount his experiences on the river as he shares his paintings. 

  Attendees will have the chance to purchase his paintings and he will also be available to autograph copies of his selected image "LaBarge Rock."

  The Missouri Breaks is one of several landscapes across the United States featured in the BLM's national Artist in Residence program.  The program promotes awareness of the wealth of natural, cultural and historic resources on America's 245 million acres of public lands managed by the BLM, which include the National Conservation Lands, areas prized for their unique diversity and widespread use across the United States. These landscapes include National Monuments, wilderness study areas, and National Historic and Scenic Trails.

  For more information, call the Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center at 877-256-3252 or 406-622-4000.