Cody Wyoming Art Galleries

Cody is as much an art town as an authentic Western town. This is likely due to having great patrons of the arts living next to cowboys while the town grew. With their support and others, we now enjoy a world-class museum that showcases the Whitney Western Art Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

The businesses shining brightly in September are the art galleries. The third week of that month is Cody’s Rendezvous Royale Art Week. This celebration of Western art brings together local businesses, artists, and artisans that showcase Cody’s artistic side. Each gallery has a unique offering that’s worth your time to visit. Thursday that week is the Art Walk, an event allowing us to appreciate the artwork while gathering as a community. While this is a great opportunity to visit, it’s also nice to visit the art galleries at quieter times to fully appreciate the artwork. Below is a list of the art galleries to visit.

Art Galleries in Cody, Wyoming:

Big Horn Galleries | 1167 Sheridan Ave

Big Horn Galleries has been in business in Cody for 43 years and continues to be a strong supporter of the arts in the community. You’ll find a blend of traditional and contemporary Western art from both local and premier artists from across the country. Many of the artists in the gallery are also in Rendezvous Royale/the Buffalo Bill Art Show. A number of these artists also have works in museums and private collections nationwide.

By Western Hands | 1007 12th St

By Western Hands, a non-profit dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich tradition of Western functional art and design, has become an integral part of Rendezvous Royale. During the week, classes are taught by some of the master artisans. They also have a few pieces of functional art in the Buffalo Bill Art Show & Auction, so stop by to see them in person before the auction. Their Legacy Artisan Gallery holds all of the past Switchback Ranch Award-winning pieces that showcase the timeless quality of Western design.

Cody Arts | 1215 Sheridan Ave

With artist members from Wyoming and Montana, this gallery is bursting with local talent. In May, they host an art show open to all, and during Cody’s Rendezvous Royale Art Week, they host various classes and often host a special exhibition. Stop in for unique art gifts that support local artists.

Established in 1964 as a nonprofit, Cody Arts is located in the Visitor’s Center on Sheridan Avenue in downtown Cody, Wyoming. The structure is the original Buffalo Bill Museum and is registered on the National Register of Historic Places. The founding members established the art league in order to promote the artistic endeavor among local artists by encouraging exhibits, displays and sales; fostering art education among artists, and the support of art classes to all artists in the community, which was the heart of the movement. Today’s Cody Arts is about and dedicated to continuing and furthering their dream.

Cody Art Show at The Irma Hotel | 1192 Sheridan Ave

During Cody’s Rendezvous Royale Art Week, The Irma Hotel hosts a 3-day art show. Artists have rented rooms to set up their work as a pop-up gallery. This year the Cody Art Show opens Thursday-Saturday, September 17, 18, and 19. See works by artists Linda Jolley, Brent Flory, Amber Scally, Stacy Muncy, Amanda Cowen, Karen Petrovich, Mary Michael, Maggie Basset and Christy Daniels.

Contemporary Western Arts | 1244 Sunshine Ave

Discover a more intimate and personal way to view art in the context of a real home. Contemporary Western Arts opens its doors once a year during Rendezvous Royale to the public to view contemporary artists working with Western themes. The rest of the year is open by appointment only. Experienced New York Gallery owner, Silas Von Morisse, has curated a collection of artists who express a modern take on the classic Western theme. Stop in to see this unique collection in a comfortable atmosphere. Read more about Contemporary Western Arts in this Cody Journal article.

Open Range Images | 1201 Sheridan Ave

Open Range Images, co-op photography gallery, has been in existence for many years. While the artists represented there may have changed, the quality of the photography continues to rise. Filled with photos of wildlife and landscapes from around the region, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. Stop by to see the work from the 12 photographers anytime of year. On Thursday of Art Week, they will participate in the Art Walk with most of the photographers in attendance to visit with while you enjoy light refreshments.

Simpson Gallagher Gallery | 1161 Sheridan Ave

For over 30 years, Simpson Gallagher Gallery has been a mainstay of the art community in Cody. The gallery represents some of the preeminent artists whose works are inspired and influenced by the American West. While focused primarily on landscape painting, wildlife sculpture and original prints, the gallery exhibits a broad range of styles and subject matter. Many of the gallery’s artists participate in the Buffalo Bill Art Show as well as being included in the permanent collections of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and other well-known museums and private collections.

Timmer Gallery | 1371 Sheridan Ave

Brian Timmer uses vibrant colors to interpret the local wildlife and landscapes of the West. He has been in his current location with his gallery and art studio for five years. Please stop by to see his original artworks and prints and visit with Brian. He also shows the work of other select artists, including original pieces by Maggie Bassett, and carries gift items and a selection of art supplies.

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