Bismarck Art Galleries
(Bismarck, North Dakota - ND, USA)
For visitors with a keen interest in the world of art, Bismarck offers up two main galleries of note, not to mention a thriving summer artisan / art fair at the beginning of each August, within the grounds of the
North Dakota State Capitol (first held in 1974). The centrally located Bismarck Art and Galleries Association lies just off East Main Avenue (Interstate I-94B) and is just a couple of blocks to the north of the popular Kirkwood Mall.
Often abbreviated as simply BAGA, this organization showcases a variety of visual arts, actively encouraging art appreciation at all levels. The association of today began its life at the turn of 1983, following the merger of both the Elan Gallery and the Bismarck Art Association.
Based within the lower level of the North Dakota State Capitol is the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Hall of Fame, where portraits of those honoured with the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award are displayed. This prestigious accolade was first awarded in 1961 to recognise important and influential North Dakotans.
Bismarck Art and Galleries Association (BAGA)
Address: 422 East Front Avenue, Bismarck, North Dakota (ND), 58504, USA
Tel: +1 701 223 5986
This particular gallery opened in 1991, with regular changing exhibits being staged each month to promote both regional artists from North Dakota and national American artists. Art workshops are often held at the weekend, while special events include the For Art's Sake Flea Market at the beginning of May, the Fall Art Exhibition in October, and the annual BAGA Cookie Walk in mid-December.
Open hours: Tuesday to Friday 10:00 to 17:00; Saturday - 13:00 to 15:00
Admission: free
Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Hall of Fame
Address: State Capitol, 600 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, North Dakota (ND), 58505, USA
Tel: +1 701 328 2480
Currently there are now around 40 portraits on display within this gallery space, including paintings of regional actors, artists, authors, business leaders, entertainers, journalists and members of the military. Roosevelt, America's 26th president, always looked upon this state fondly, after trying his hand at being a rancher in the Badlands area of the Dakota territory, before building his very own ranch nearby Medora, North Dakota.
Open hours: annually, Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 17:00; late May to early September, Saturday - 09:00 to 11:00 and 13:00 to 16:00, Sunday - 13:00 to 16:00
Admission: free