Michelle Kristula-Green, a contemporary mosaic artist in Big Sky, shares how the Big Sky Artists’ Collective Studio and Gallery supports local artists committed to creating original work. Guided by a shared mission to inspire, promote, and connect creatives, the Collective builds community through art that reflects the landscapes, wildlife, and culture of Yellowstone, Big Sky, and Montana, celebrating the meaningful role art plays in people’s lives.

Located in Big Sky’s Town Center, the Big Sky Artists Collective Studio and Gallery anchors a lively mix of cafés, shops, public art, and gathering spots. Inside this artists’ owned and operated studio and gallery, local artists create, teach, and sell their works that capture the soul of Yellowstone, Big Sky, and Montana.

Our story began in 2019 with a studio tour organized by Linda Goldinger of the Arts Council of Big Sky. We realized that by working collectively, we could support and promote Big Sky’s local artists, creating a more active and vibrant visual arts community. From that spark, about ten of us, including Georgia Baker, Donna LaHue, Heather Rapp, Tilly Mattox, Dave Pecunies, Maggie Shane, and myself, formed the Big Sky Artists’ Collective just before the pandemic.

During 2020 and 2021, we started with one annual art sale and added new members. In 2022, Dave offered the Collective his gallery space and we launched the Big Sky Artists’ Studio and Gallery to showcase our members. Today, nearly thirty local artists, ranging from established long-time artists to emerging creators are united by collaboration and a commitment to creating and supporting local art.

The Big Sky Artists’ Collective is a non-profit, entirely member-run. We take turns working in the gallery and contribute time to helping each other learn, grow, and exhibit professionally. We highlight emerging members’ work, hosting monthly First Friday events, open studios, and larger events like Paint Under the Big Sky, which brings plein air artists from across the country to Big Sky in June. Seasonal shows, like our Labor Day exhibition and December Small Works Show, highlight members’ work across painting, photography, mosaics, ceramics, and prints.

Come inside the studio and gallery to meet a local artist and explore our locally inspired work. Or roll up your sleeves and join an Open Studio or one of our visiting art classes. You can even schedule a private, hands-on workshop with one of our talented members and create your own masterpiece!