For the fifth time in five years, I joined 29 fabulous artist’s on Town Square to participate in the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival QuickDraw. The rules? Artist’s may complete their works to 25% in advance of the event… at precisely 8:00AM, a horn blows, and we have 90-minutes to create.

Immediately upon completion — the works are live-auctioned in front of a live audience. Stressful? Invigorating? Exhausting? All of this, and more.

First, let’s talk about this incredible source image. A few years back, Bradley Boner captured this breathtaking image of the ‘Howdy Stranger Yonder is Jackson Hole The Last of the Old West’ sign. It was published in Jackson Hole News & Guide… and I was immediately taken aback. Fast forward to this August… I reached out to Brad, and he graciously allowed me to use this as my inspiration.

In fact… here is a capture of the Teton Pass webcam with Brad working on his beautiful work of art.

And to complete the full meta circle… here is Brad, taking a photo of yours truly, painting my interpretation of his photograph, as photographed by Jenn Rein, and published on my website.

My friend Brian McDermott snapped this shot… it provides a glimpse into the crowds… and, of course, my fly wardrobe.

Here is where I began my painting the day of the event. Artist’s are a surprisingly competitive bunch, so I always send a preview of my work to the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce at 25% for official approval.

Following an extremely exciting auction… my dear friends, Zach and Courtney brought down the gavel… keeping the Borbay QuickDraw collection in the Wilson family universe for two straight years! Thank you so much you guys… Zach, you were more nervous than I was for the auction… which was awesome, because that’s a high octane moment for yours truly. I hope you love it, and can’t wait to see you again.

Another beauty of a photo by Jenn Rein, thank you Jenn.

Back in 2018, I asked the Jackson Hole Chamber if I could participate in QuickDraw. They inquired if I was represented by a gallery, I said no… I’m self-represented. But, thanks to some creative thinking on the part of Maureen Murphy… I joined The Chamber, nominated myself, and was accepted.

My first year, the work auctioned for $1500. Year two? $1500 again. In 2020, my work went for $5500. Last year? $11,500. This year, $14,000. I’m extremely proud of the works I’ve created during QuickDraw, and am grateful for the entire Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce team for putting on this amazing event.

As for what comes next? I’ve decided to take the year off from QuickDraw in 2023 to focus on developing the first Teton Valley Fall Arts Festival with the leaders of our community. I can’t wait to share what we will be bringing to the Idaho side next fall… stand by.