Official Guide to Art Week Great Falls, Montana March 15th-19th, 2023
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1533210
portfolio portfolio • 39 38TH ANNUAL MARCH IN MONTANA AUCTION AND DEALER SHOW Thursday, March 20 Dealer Show and Auction Preview | 9 am - 5 pm Friday, March 21 Dealer Show and Auction Preview | 9 am - 5 pm Auction Begins: 11 am (MST) Saturday, March 22 Dealer Show and Auction Preview | 9 am - 5 pm Auction Begins: 11 am (MST) Sunday, March 23 Auction Check Out and Item Pickup | 9 am - 12 pm Elks Lodge #214 500 1st Ave. S. Contact Information 208-664-2091 www.marchinmontana.com bid.marchinmontana.com (app) buy.marchinmontana.com (iCollector) All events are free and open to the public. To view the 2025 March in Montana Digital Catalogue, Artist Index, absentee bidding information, and more, go to www.MarchinMontana.com. With such a diverse range of works sourced from across the nation, the 38th annual March in Montana promises to be a showcase of rare and remarkable artistry, bringing together collectors, history enthusiasts, and Western art aficionados in a celebration of the region's rich creative legacy. March in Montana prides itself on offering a diverse selection, ensuring there's something for every collector—from seasoned buyers to those just beginning their journey into Western and Native American art. "We have a real good variety again this year," says Ron Nicklas. "We have some nice saddles, really nice beadwork. Of course, the majority of our sales are flat art and bronzes, and then weavings." Among this year's more unexpected highlights is an original painting by Bob Ross. Best known for his PBS series e Joy of Painting, Ross's works are a rarity in the auction world, making this piece an exciting addition that is sure to generate considerable interest. Sculpture enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in this year's bronze bonanza, with over 100 exceptional works from renowned artists. Additionally, an extraordinary collection of Alaskan art adds further depth to the sale. Rounding out the auction is a remarkable selection of more than 60 Navajo weavings, an impressive array of Native American artifacts, and heirloom firearms—each piece a tangible connection to the rich history and artistry of the American West. Antique firearms remain a major draw at March in Montana, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of history. Every gun in the auction predates 1898, with some boasting intricate engravings while others retain their original, well-worn character. Among this year's standouts are an engraved Henry rifle from around 1864 and a Winchester from 1866—both exceptional examples of crasmanship and frontier legacy. "We always have a half dozen to a dozen really fine Winchester rifles, and that brings in some of the gun collectors," says Ron Nicklas. "It's amazing how many of the gun collectors or the weaving collectors come in and buy a couple of paintings when they are there." Interest in this year's auction is stronger than ever, with expectations for large and enthusiastic crowds. "We have been really pleasantly surprised by the amount of interest we have received this year," Nicklas notes. For those new to Montana or the Northwest, March in Montana is more than just an auction—it's an experience that captures the spirit of the West and the artistry that defines it. Navajo Blanket - 6'9" x 5'1" • Third Phase Chief's Blanket woven from all Native handspun and hand-dyed Churro sheep wool on a wool warp. This design is the classic 9 spot layout with bold, dark brown and white stripes and stepped diamond motifs. Circa 1890.

