Experience the Artsy Side of Cody Yellowstone at the Rendezvous Royale
Cody has earned its reputation as an authentic Western town. It’s the “Rodeo Capitol of the World,” and the region’s working ranches still employ real cowboys who are sure to be found walking Sheridan Avenue on a Saturday night.
Cody, however, has been home to a thriving art scene for almost as long as the ropers have been roping.
Close to a century ago, our citizens sought a way to honor our town founder. So they commissioned New York sculptor Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney to create “The Scout,” the sculpture of Buffalo Bill Cody on his horse located just north of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.
Whitney got to work on The Scout around 100 years ago, and the completed sculpture was installed in 1924. Some 35 years later, Gertrude’s son, Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, donated the funds to create a museum devoted to Western art and to honor his mother in the process. In 1959 the Whitney Gallery of Western Art was dedicated, and countless people have marveled at its Russells, Remingtons, Bierstadts, and much more.
Rendezvous Royale
World-class art tends to attract, well, world-class artists. Every September, we celebrate by staging our annual Rendezvous Royale.
This year from Sept. 19-24, we will bask in the creativity displayed at the Center of the West with our art show, auction, seminars, and art studio tours. The Live Auction on Sept. 21 is always a spirited event, and art lovers can bid on-site, online, or by phone.
Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale
More than 100 artists participate in the three-day Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale. This year, event attendees can see the work of artists such as one-time cowboy Buckeye Blake, whose early career has provided the inspiration and knowledge of Western subjects; Julie Chapman, who offers a contemporary take on the modern American West; and sculptor Campbell Dosch, whose sculptures interpret the American West and particularly, Native Americans.
When not attending Rendezvous Royale events, you can find artistic inspiration throughout the town at places such as the Cody Country Art League, By Western Hands Museum & Gallery, Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and the many galleries throughout the region.
The event is capped by an elegant Patron’s Ball on Sept. 24.
Cody Yellowstone is a Work of Art
Cody has long been known as an artsy town, and our artistic roots have been lauded in numerous publications. Recent stories in USA Today, Travel + Leisure, Livability, and Marketwatch have named Cody among the destinations with the best small-town art scenes.
Come see our masterpieces for yourself. Request your free vacation guide and start planning your next adventure!
