The Northwest Rendezvous Group (NWR) of artists is once again teaming up with the Montana Historical Society to feature some of America’s best contemporary art at the Western Rendezvous of Art. The traditions of Rendezvous will be evident — great art, great people and great fun — but we’ll have some new twists for you in 2010.

Helena’s Red Lion Colonial Hotel will be our headquarters where the Rendezvous Art Show will be exhibited and where we’ll gather for Friday and Saturday evenings. The Red Lion provides a relaxed environment where it is easy to have informal conversations with Rendezvous folks at and between events. You’ll also have the chance to visit the Montana Historical Society, the historic Sieben Ranch, and other great places down and around town.

Rendezvous 2010 will feature a very special Friday afternoon with NWR artist Harley Brown who will look back on his art and career. A new, informal presentation at the Colonial following the Thursday BBQ with “Milk & Cookies” will feature Professor Raphael Chacon discussing the art in the historic Glacier park hotels. A terrific keynote speaker, Abe Hays — renowned art collector and gallery owner from Paradise Valley, Arizona — will talk about his “60 years in the Art Game” at Friday’s Awards Banquet.

Of course, the Western Rendezvous of Art will continue to be the art show and sale known for its friendly atmosphere and personal interaction with some of the top artists in the country. The NWR Group and their Guest Artists are planning on seeing you at the Artist’s Reception on Friday evening to visit with you and sign your Rendezvous catalogs.

For those new to Rendezvous — browse around our website to see what the Western Rendezvous of Art is all about. You’ll see samples of paintings and sculpture featured in this year’s Rendezvous show, see last year’s award-winners, and (to get a feel for our fabulous fun events) check out the slide show in the Rendezvous 2009 Photo Album. For our returning friends, please mark your calendars — this year’s show is scheduled for August 19-22.

We are looking forward to Rendezvous 2010. Join us for good food, good company and a great art experience!