The Project

Thanks to the contributions of dozens of volunteers, the financial assistance of many supporters, and the creative work of almost thirty artists, the Big Horn Basin of northwestern Wyoming will host twenty-five giant painted fiberglass grizzlies during the summer of 2008.

This project is about libraries, art, and youth, and the latter have contributed their share already, beginning with a parade entry during the 2007 Fourth of July celebrations. It will continue as they paint many small models of the large bear and submit them for a juried competition.

The best of the small bears--nine-inch models--as determined by a jury from the Cody Country Art League, will be exhibited during the summer and sold at silent auction at the same time as the large bears are auctioned. Cash awards will go to the artists whose bears bring the highest amount.

All funds raised by this project will go to the Park County Library Foundation and into an account to be used for supporting the youth and childrens libraries in Park County. What will the proceeds from this project buy? Books and audio/visual materials, smart boards and televisions, computers and MP-3 players, study carels and study rooms. We want all children in Park County to have access to the best educational materials and study environment we can provide.