Art Inspired By America's Best Idea

Maybe it was hearing about the PBS series The National Parks: America's Best Idea that made me think about national parks art. I've got some photos for you by Jeff L. Fox, a wilderness photographer based in Bozeman, Montana "who strives to capture the people, places, and mystique of America's unique wilderness heritage."

Sunset at Snyder Lake - Anaconda Pintler Wilderness, Montana
by Jeff L. Fox

Going to Sun Road in April - Glacier National Park, Montana
by Jeff L. Fox

Cirque of the Towers Reflected - Wind River Range, Wyoming
by Jeff L. Fox

Dusty Trails in Monture Creek - Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana
by Jeff L. Fox

Thomas Moran (1837-1926) is known for his paintings of Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, among other works.

Hot Springs of Gardiner's River
by Thomas Moran

In the Lava Beds
by Thomas Moran

Autumn
by Thomas Moran

For 21 years, the parks had an annual "Arts for the Parks" competition. It appears to have ended in 2008, but you can take a peek at some of the winners at the Grand Canyon Association site.

And here is a painting from the competition:

Winter Dusting
by Denise Drummond


Now, some links:
~ How to See Rock Art
~ Take Part in Art at the Weir Farm National Historic Site.
~ John Muir's drawings (Who was John Muir?)
~ Photographer Ansel Adams. His site is having a National Parks Photography Contest, but you have to be quick -- the deadline is November 15th.
~ An ArtsEdge lesson on discovering national parks.