FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts:
Andrew Keating, Director of Communications, 406.657.1104, media@rocky.edu
Sally McIntosh, Director of Ryniker-Morrison Gallery, sally.mcintosh@rocky.edu

Rocky Mountain College Art Student Elyssa Leininger ArtWalk Debut May 5

BILLINGS, May 5, 2017 – In the realm of art, some artists are known so familiarly they are household words. For Rocky Mountain College art student Elyssa Leininger—it all starts with a little exposure. On May 5 Leininger will get to display her work at the 2017 Billings ArtWalk.

The ArtWalk, now in its 23^rd season, provides participants an opportunity to engage in the creative spirit that thrives in the downtown Billings area. As art seekers visit different host sites to view artwork at various galleries, studios, and businesses, they also can make art, watch theatre performances, and listen to gallery talks.

And, for artists like Leininger, ArtWalk is also an opportunity to display as well as sell artwork. The host site that asked Leininger if they could display her work was Strait’N Arrow, a new store which features Western and American themed art and artifacts.

“They heard about my senior art show that is currently up at Rocky, saw some of my work, and decided that I would be the perfect candidate to be their featured artist at their grand opening during the first ArtWalk of 2017, as my work essentially glorifies the American West and emphasizes the beauty and vibrancy of the animals and wildlife that inhabit it.”

And, Elyssa’s style is a result of study at Rocky and abroad.

“In the art program at Rocky, we are always helping students ‘find their voice’ as an artist,” said Jim Baken, professor of fine arts at RMC. “Elyssa, I can honestly say, has found her voice. She studied in Europe and found sensibilities she applied to the wildlife and the outdoors of Montana. With her emphasis on color and dramatic lighting, Elyssa finds herself in the middle of what I call Montana Baroque.”

“I was extremely honored and excited for this incredible opportunity to get my name out there as an artist, and I look forward to receiving comments and feedback from the general public as well as from other artists,” Leininger said.

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