Folk Arts Demonstrators
Officially demonstrations are open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. But demonstrators vary throughout the day, with some available both Saturday and Sunday while others are only demonstrating for a few hours.
If you have ever wondered how someone makes a metal spoon or carves a wood bowl — how to spin a thread or make a banjo — this is your chance to not only see the work but to talk to the artist and even try it out yourself.
One of the special qualities about people in Wyoming is we still work with our hands — it’s part of our heritage and even today’s culture. And people are willing to share their expertise. For the second year, the Big Horn Basin Folk Festival will celebrate who we are – where we live – and what we do. Many of the people who are demonstrating do not attend shows or sell their work. So you have a rare opportunity to meet them.
Guilds Featured at Festival
Several guilds are participating in the Big Horn Basin Folk Festival, Aug. 5-6, in Hot Springs State Park.
Barrie Lynn Bryant, Kirby, works gilding a picture frame with gold leaf.
Worland Wyoming Woodturners
We are excited to have members of the Worland Wyoming Woodturners joining us with a fantastic group of activities! Last year, they had lathes going the entire time and demonstrated numerous techniques. They turned yo-yos from discarded Wyoming Whiskey wood barrel staves which were a big hit. Sam Angelo, Worland and Barrie Lynn Bryant, Kirby, will be demonstrating woodturning and gilding wood, along with other members.
Sam Angelo, master woodturner
Rug designed and hooked by Patti Tyrrell, Shell.
Wild West Rug Hookers
Members of the Wild West Rug Hookers Guild cover the northwest-central area of Wyoming. Members who will be displaying their work will also have plenty of supplies to let visitors try their hand at the craft. Those on hand to help are Wild West Rug Hookers. Rug hooking demonstrations, Come meet Wyoming rug hookers and try it out!
Smoking Waters Art Guild (SWAG)
SWAG members will be hosting a number of hands-on activities for families, adults and kids during the Festival. More details to come
Big Horn Basin Storyteller Guild
Members of the guild will be performing in the Wyoming Storytelling Tent both days. Also helping with the Storytelling Tent this year is Friends of the Library.
Red Dirt Master Gardeners
Members of the Red Dirt Master Gardeners support the Farmers Market and the Community Garden. They will be offering activities for kids Sunday afternoon in the Smoking Waters Art Guild tent. Come prepared for kids to get their hands dirty (Dirt is good!)
Special Guests:
- David Osmundsen, Arrowhead Forge, Buffalo – forged metal work – David will be working at his portable forge all during the festival. A consummate craftsman, Osmundsen is a member of the former Wyoming Artist Roster. He teaches classes as well as demonstrating in many state parks and cultural institutions throughout the year.
- Wes Whipple, Thermopolis – metal knife blade forging and knife construction.
