The Old West Balloon Fest: Art in the Sky

The 2019 Old West Balloon Fest Art Exhibit highlights the artistic value of regional artwork and its connection to the Panhandle through celebrations. The contest is open to all in the Panhandle Valley, styles and techniques which may include photographs & artwork of hot air balloons and/or of the Western Nebraska region. Submissions were accepted from of all ages and skill levels. The contest is meant to highlight the artistic value of the photographic medium as well as promote the Old West Balloon Fest event. We also welcome artists of other mediums. We to encompass several styles that showcase the North Platte Valley region. There are two categories: photography and other mediums. Each category will have an adult Best of Show, youth Best of Show and four honorable mentions. For a total of 12 awards given. The judge for this exhibit will be Rod Clause. Rodney Clause is a Gering native. He graduated from Chardon State College with a BA in Studio Art, and a BS in Art Education K-12. He also received his MFA in Sculpture and minor in ceramics from Fort Hays State University. His work experience includes bronze foundries, teaching community ceramic classes and being a professor at Chadron State College. Currently Clause owns and operates Der Topfer Gallery and Studio located in Scottsbluff. At this location Clause offers ceramic classes.