Open AIR

We believe artists are keystone species of a healthy human ecology…

ABOUT

Open AIR is a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization that fosters creative collaboration in Montana. With headquarters in Missoula, MT, we serve urban and rural areas of Montana.

Our mission is to connect diverse communities with creativity through educational, collaborative, and place-based initiatives. Our vision is to strengthen the creative capacity of Montana and foster experiences that are culturally vibrant, healthy, and intellectually vigorous. 

Open AIR is best known for its unique place-based Artist-in-Residence program that connects artists from all disciplines and origins, with culturally, historically, and ecologically significant locations through collaborative partnerships in Montana.

With innovative opportunities available in places such as remote wilderness areas to historically significant sites closer to town, artists have the opportunity to draw inspiration from a regional community dedicated to preserving place, environment, and the arts.

Additional programming includes activities that are free and donation-based, such as:

  • Artist presentations

  • Online programming and resources

  • Artist-led workshops

  • Exhibitions

  • Indigenous Initiatives

IMPACT

Since 2019, we have placed over 100 diverse artists working in all disciplines from Montana, the US, and beyond, at places rich in environmental, historical, or cultural significance through our flagship Artist-in-Residence program. 

Our work is founded on collaboration through place-based initiatives. We believe that we are stronger together and the fabric of communities is strengthened when we lift one another up.

We offer arts-integrated programming that amplifies community partners, including environmental initiatives, and history & culture through the lens of the arts.

Over the years, we have worked with unique partners, including:

  • American Prairie

  • Clark Chateau, Butte 

  • Clark Fork Coalition, Anaconda

  • Explore the Arts, Hamilton

  • Flathead Lake Biological Station, Polson

  • Garden City Harvest, Missoula

  • Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

  • Home ReSource, Missoula

  • Missoula Butterfly House + Insectarium

  • Missoula Parks & Recreation

  • Missoula Public Library

  • Montana Museum of Art and Culture

  • Montana Natural History Center, Missoula

  • Moon Randolph Homestead, Missoula

  • Philipsburg Arts Fund

  • Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation

  • Travelers' Rest State Park, Lolo

  • Trout Unlimited

  • The University of Montana Emlen Lab

  • The University of Montana Alexander Blewett School of Law 

We are a small but mighty organization served by two full-time staff members, a UM Work-Study student, and eleven Board of Directors. Your donations are 100% tax deductible and every gift is appreicated. Consider making a meaningful-to-you gift today to support this vital work.

HISTORY

Founded in 2019 by artists Stoney Samsoe and Hadley Ferguson, Open AIR was established on a deep belief that artists are critical to our communities' vitality. We were inspired to create programming that integrates artists across diverse areas of Montana, reducing silos between communities, promoting artistic and intellectual vitality, and fostering interconnectivity between diverse individuals and organizations.

(Originally formed as Western Montana Creative Initiatives, we have since adopted Open AIR as our organizational name.)