I had the distinct honor of live-painting during the University of Wyoming Art Museum’s Black Tie Gala in Laramie. The committee and yours truly explored a variety of compositions, but the Thunderbird Lodge immediately became the top contender.

Beginning at Borbay Studios & Gallery, this piece began by blocking out the key elements. My initial thought was to paint the sky the Blackest Black, akin to Girl with a Pearl. However, as things developed… I pivoted. Artistic license… ride that horse until it’s revoked kids.

The blue felt right. My goal was to explore the entire canvas, leaving the neon elements for the live painting experience. It’s important to lavish time on the “less active” portions of the canvas. This creates balance and fidelity in the final work.

Here is where the painting was left at Borbay Studios & Gallery, prior to hitting the road for Laramangelous. It’s always a curious moment… deciding how much you can do in a final session, particularly when completion is the destination.

These three beauties joined me for the road trip, fortunately, we had sitter extraordinaire, Savannah, along for the ride. Pearl Bagels FTW.

Here is my lovely set-up on campus for the gala. We arrived early so I could get a jump start on the neon action.

Miss Rodeo Wyoming stopped by to check out the painting progress. Lovely young lady. I channeled my inner Keanu.

A little pre-auction mingling after a long day of painting neon. My outfit? Just how the cowboys of yesteryear drew up the Western fashion of tomorrow.

Nothing but laughs and good times on this fine evening in Laramie. Enjoying a conversation with Board Member, Nicole Choi.

Catching a moment with Katy Rinne, who was instrumental in securing my involvement with the museum. Thank you Katy.

Nicole Crawford, Director and Chief Curator, gets the auction off a sizzling start.

The lovely Bailey was kind enough to play Vanna for the evening with Thunderbird.

I was able to overcome my crippling fear of public speaking to talk about the painting. Kidding. Hand me a mic, and I’m all day.

Catching up with the auction winner, Matt Ward, post event.

Lots to discuss with author extraordinaire, C.J. Box.

And with that, it was a wrap in Laramie. On the drive home, we saw four bears. That was pretty rad.

We also spotted a Jackalope.

This was a popular stop.

For the kids…

And middle aged paint slingers.