Voting NOw Open!
Medora Masterpiece
Art CONTEST - New Art in the Old West
Cast your vote! Artists from across the region have submitted work inspired by “60 Years of the Medora Musical.” The winning design will be turned into a mural at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre. Voting is open through April 30, 2025. Then join us to watch the winning artist bring their work to life during the opening week of the Medora Musical.
See the Finalists
Sixty Summers
By Bailey White | Moorhead, MN
Hi, I’m Bailey—a painter from Bismarck, North Dakota. I work with acrylic and gouache, and I also love painting digitally. My heart is in portraiture, but lately I’ve been exploring a patchwork style that brings together bright colors and bold shapes.Â
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I’m deeply proud to be from North Dakota. The wide-open skies, changing seasons, and lasting beauty of this place are woven into everything I make. In 2023, I was honored to be named the Giving Hearts Day Artist of the Year—something that means a lot to me as someone who cares deeply about art that connects and gives back.Â
The piece depicts three women wearing iconic Medora Musical costumes from different decades. With so many designs to choose from, I selected outfits that best represent their eras while staying true to Medora’s aesthetic. The first costume with the brown vest is from the 1980s. The second reflects the bold colors of 2010, and the third is a current design that I particularly love for its intricate embroidery. As the costume tops flow into skirts, the composition transitions into the Burning Hills Amphitheatre and the rolling landscape of the Badlands, blending the ever-changing costumes with the iconic stage.
Let’s Celebrate!
By Rachel Jungling | Mandan, ND
Rachel Jungling is a painter with a vibrant take on the landscapes she loves. A North Dakota native, Rachel’s artwork turns ordinary scenes into vivid expressions of color and light. With a B.A. in Art from the University of North Dakota, she spent eight years teaching art in Bismarck before stepping away to spend more time with her children.Â
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Painting from photographs, Rachel views the world through “rose-colored glasses,” infusing each piece with an emotional, colorful twist that highlights the beauty she’s come to appreciate in her home state. What was once a place she found plain is now an endless source of inspiration, where every butte and sky is an opportunity to celebrate the landscape in a bold and new way.Â
“Let’s Celebrate!” highlights the joy and vibrancy that the Medora Musical has brought to so many over the last sixty years. The beautiful layers in the landscape that are the backdrop for the Burning Hills Amphitheatre make up this lovely birthday cake. As the sun goes down, the stage only shines brighter. Fluorescent colors capture the brilliance of the stage and all on and behind it who help make Medora so magical. Thousands have walked away from a night under the stars with smiles, cute pink cowboy hats, and great memories. Sixty great years and a bright future ahead! Let’s celebrate!Â
A Stamped Legacy: Celebrating 60 Years of Medora’s Magic
By Winnie Weninger | Carrington, ND
Winnie Weninger is a mixed media artist born and raised in North Dakota, whose work explores the relationship between place, memory, and identity. Rooted in storytelling and intentional design, their practice embraces the tactile process of working by hand. Through slow, deliberate marks, Weninger reflects on the deep sense of tradition and the emotional weight of personal connection.
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Weninger graduated from North Dakota State University in 2024 with a B.S. in Graphic Design and Communications. Over the past two summers, they have performed in the Medora Musical and contributed to its marketing efforts—experiences that deepened their creative bond with the region and continue to inspire their evolving body of work.
A Stamped Legacy: Celebrating 60 Years of Medora’s Magic,” is a tribute to the enduring spirit and heartfelt traditions of the Medora Musical. Each stamp has an iconic symbol of something that has captured the values, stories, and moments that have resonated with audiences for generations. Whether it’s the spirit of the West or the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, they reflect the vibrant soul of Medora—one that continues to bring joy to all who visit.Â
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Each individual artwork was created using linocut printmaking, a hands-on process where each image is carefully carved into linoleum blocks. The technique reminded me of how the Burning Hills Amphitheatre was etched into the North Dakota hillside, and I felt that it paid homage to the iconic venue. Medora holds many cherished memories for generations of folks, all of which have many rich stories to tell.Â
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While working in Medora one summer, I met my now girlfriend. Before she left at the end of the season, she handed me a local postcard with a handwritten note—a small, thoughtful gesture that captured everything we’d shared. Postcards became our way of staying close across the miles between our visits. This inspired me to turn each image into a stamp—reminders of friendships forged, laughter shared, and love found under Medora’s lights.Â
Hats Off to 60 Years!
By Linda Donlin | Bismarck, ND
Linda Donlin has created a body of work that reflects her passion for the beauty of nature, rural America, the Badlands, the Southwest and the performing arts. She is represented by the Capital Gallery in Bismarck, and her pieces have sold to collectors all over the country. In cooperation with the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, she wrote and illustrated a book called The Magic of Medora. Her nine grandchildren were involved in the research and publication process, and their images appear in her illustrations. She also created a companion coloring and activity book for The Magic of Medora. Her artwork was recently chosen by the North Dakota Council on the Arts to be featured on the top floor of the North Dakota State Capitol from January-April 2025. Linda and her husband Charlie reside in Bismarck.
“Hats Off to 60 Years” celebrates six decades of the Medora Musical, starting with the vision of Harold and Sheila Schafer and passed along through the years, thanks to the creative efforts of the talented artists who have brought it to life each season since. I contacted Karter Dolan, a Burning Hills singer, in 2024 to obtain the primary image. Fun Facts: I used to work with his mom Tammy, and my son Mike Seil was one of Karter’s musical directors in high school.Â
Vote For Your Favorite
The voting period will end April 30, 2025. The winner, contingent upon their acceptance, will be announced on May 5, 2025.
About Medora Masterpiece
Art CONTEST - New Art in the Old West
Medora Masterpiece is an exciting initiative aimed at promoting local artists, creating community excitement, and enhancing the guest experience in Medora. This new annual contest invites artists or students aged 18 and above to showcase their talents. Selected artists will have the opportunity to reproduce their artwork in Medora. The contest not only celebrates creativity but also aims to establish a new tradition in the community. Join us in making Medora a vibrant hub of artistic expression!
CONTEST THEME
This year’s theme, “60 Years of the Medora Musical,” celebrates the rich history and cultural significance of the Medora Musical. For six decades, the Medora Musical has been a beloved tradition, captivating audiences with its vibrant performances and scenic backdrop. The Burning Hills Amphitheatre, carved into the hillside by local volunteers in 1958, has become an iconic venue.
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The theme, “60 Years of the Medora Musical,” invites participants to delve into the historical journey of this beloved event. From its humble beginnings with the show “Teddy Roosevelt Rides Again” in 1965 to its transformation into the Medora Musical, the contest encourages artists to explore the show’s rich history and memorable moments. Artists can draw inspiration from various aspects of the Medora Musical, such as the scenic beauty of the Badlands, the camaraderie among performers, and the joy it brings to over 4 million attendees. Whether through portraits, landscapes, or abstract interpretations, we invite artists to express what the Medora Musical means to them and the community, celebrating its legacy and the vibrant spirit that has made it a cherished event for 60 years.”
INSPIRATION
To help you get started with your artwork for the theme “60 Years of the Medora Musical,” here are some examples and sources of inspiration:
Consider creating pieces that capture significant moments in the history of the Medora Musical. This could include the first performance of “Teddy Roosevelt Rides Again” in 1965, the evolution of the show over the years, or memorable performances that have left a lasting impact on audiences.
The Burning Hills Amphitheatre, carved into the hillside originally known as the Burning Gulch, is an iconic venue that has hosted the Medora Musical for decades. Artwork depicting the amphitheater, its unique setting, and the scenic beauty of the Badlands can be a powerful representation of the theme.
With over one hundred costumes designed and constructed each year, the vibrant and diverse costumes worn by performers can serve as a rich source of inspiration. Consider creating portraits or scenes that highlight the performers in their colorful attire, capturing the energy and spirit of the show.
Think about the audience’s experience over the years, from sitting on wooden benches before the 1992 remodel to the excitement of modern performances. Artwork that portrays the joy and anticipation of the audience can add a unique perspective to the theme.
If you prefer a more abstract approach, consider using colors, shapes, and textures to convey the emotions and atmosphere of the Medora Musical. Abstract pieces can evoke the excitement, nostalgia, and community spirit that the show has fostered over the past 60 years.
By drawing inspiration from these examples, you can create artwork that not only aligns with the theme but also brings your unique perspective and creativity to the forefront. We look forward to seeing how you interpret and celebrate “60 Years of the Medora Musical” through your art!
HOW TO ENTER
Fill out the entry form, send a photo of your artwork with the entry form to [email protected]. Physical submission is not required.Â
For physical submissions, mail your artwork to the following address:
Life Skills Center, PO Box 198, Medora, ND 58645.
Ensure that physical submissions are preceded by a digital application with a photo of the submission.
FAQ
What is the substrate?
The substrate is a treated wood panel, designed be mounted and displayed outdoors but moveable if needed in the long term.Â
Indoor or Outdoor?
Application would take place outdoors, but we have a few backup locations should the weather be uncooperative.Â
What kind of paint?
We assume Oil or Acrylic paint, but the final product that is used is up to the artist, as we will provide the supplies dictated by the artist in their submission. After completing the reproduction, we would apply sealant and protective coats to protect the artwork.Â
Do artwork submissions need to be created with the same type of paint as the replication?
We do not expect the submissions to be created with the same paint or medium as the replication. The submission can be rendered in any format that the artist deems strong enough to convey their vision, and to be extra clear this can include digital designs as well if the final product will be a hand painted piece. Variance is to be expected, and we are placing a lot of emphasis on the artist to bring their vision to life as best they can.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
File Naming:Â
File Naming: Digital files should be named in the following format: LastName_FirstName_TitleOfArtwork.
Number of Entries:
Contact Information:
Participants must include their full contact information, including Name, Email, Address, Age, and a digital signature verifying these details to be true and their agreement to the Contest Terms & Conditions.
Art Details:
Participants must provide the following details about their artwork:
• Title: The title of the artwork.
• Description: A brief description of the artwork and how it meets the theme requirements.
• Replication Plan: Details on the base color, time, and process goals for reproducing the artwork on a 4×4 foot area of wall, as well as any prep work.
• Tools Needed: A list of tools needed for the replication, such as colors, projector, and other tools.
Formats Accepted:
We accept digital submissions in JPEG, PNG, or PDF formats. Digital submissions should be a square ratio, designed for eventual reproduction on a 4×4 piece of substrate. Physical submissions can be on any substrate the artist prefers. There is no size limit for physical submissions, but please note that we will not reimburse shipping costs.
Submission Deadline:
All entries must be submitted by 11:59 PM
on April 14, 2025.
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Medora Masterpiece is to encourage creativity and artistic expression within the community. We hope to discover and showcase talented artists, providing them a platform to gain recognition and fostering a sense of community through shared artistic endeavors.
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Additionally, we seek to create community excitement by engaging residents and visitors with positive buzz in the spring. This will enhance our guest experience as we aim to beautify our locations with locally sourced art. Ultimately, we aspire to establish this contest as an annual tradition, with the potential to grow and evolve, creating a yearly project for enjoyment and growth.
ELIGIBILITY
The contest is open to all individuals aged 18 and above. Participants must submit original, purpose-made artwork not previously published or entered in other contests. We strongly encourage artists from all backgrounds and skill levels to participate, as we firmly believe in the power of diverse perspectives and creative expression.
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Previous winners are not eligible to enter the contest again. Additionally, participants must be able to attend the opening week of the Medora Musical to recreate their artwork live during that time.
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Additionally, the art must be original and purpose-made for this contest. How you create your design is up to you; all styles are accepted. Just be sure it fits into a 1×1 square ratio, and you are prepared to scale up to a 4×4 foot physical painted piece.
JUDGING CRITERIA
Entries will be evaluated based on creativity, originality, adherence to the theme, and the comprehensiveness of the reproduction plan with all necessary support. An internal panel will review all submissions and select the top three finalists based on these criteria.
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Upon being selected as a finalist, we will reach out and it is crucial that you confirm your acceptance. In the event of losing contact with a finalist or winner, they will be disqualified, and the opportunity will be offered to the next finalist in line.
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Once the finalists are confirmed, the selection process continues with an online vote hosted via the Medora social media accounts.
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This vote, which will feature each finalist’s artwork, a short biography, and their description of their artwork. The voting period will take place from April 22, 2025 to April 30, 2025. The winner, contingent upon their acceptance, will be announced on May 5, 2025.
PRIZES
1st Place:
The first-place winner will receive a comprehensive prize package that includes a four-day covered vacation to Medora for two, complete with food, lodging, dinner at the Pitchfork Steak Fondue, and Medora Musical tickets. Additionally, the winner will receive a week-long pass to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a $1,000 paid commission to produce the artwork, with supplies provided by the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, and a prepped space to reproduce their artwork. The winner will also be featured during the social media voting process, showcasing their biography and description of their artwork.
2nd Place:
The second-place winner will receive two Medora Musical ticket vouchers and will be featured during the social media voting process, showcasing their biography and description of their artwork.
3rd Place:
The third-place winner will be featured during the social media voting process, showcasing their biography and description of their artwork.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Copyright and Usage Rights:
We respect the rights of our participants and you retain the copyright to your artwork. However, by entering the contest, the top three finalists grant us the right to use their artwork for promotional purposes, including on our website and social media. The first-place winner will also allow us to reproduce their art as we see fit. These finalists agree that their artwork may be used in future promotions and marketing materials related to the contest. Artist credit will always be given.
Commission Payment:
The $1,000 commission for the first-place winner will be paid upon completing the artwork at our location.
Disqualification:
Entries may be disqualified if they do not adhere to the submission guidelines, contain offensive content, or are found to be plagiarized. Additionally, losing contact with finalists or winners will result in disqualification, and the opportunity will be offered to the next finalist.
Liability:
We are not responsible for any lost or damaged entries. Participants are encouraged to keep a copy of their submissions. It’s important to note that artists are solely responsible for all shipping costs associated with their submissions.
Privacy:
By entering the contest, participants agree to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the contest and awarding prizes. Personal information will not be shared with third parties without the participant’s consent, except as necessary for the administration of the contest.
Modification of Terms:
We reserve the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Participants will be notified of any changes, and continued participation in the contest will constitute acceptance of the modified terms.
Support:
For any questions or assistance, please contact us at [email protected] or call 701-623-4444.
Updates:
Entrants can find updates and additional information about the contest on our website’s contest page Medora.com/Masterpiece.
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We will also post updates on our social media accounts, so be sure
to follow us for the latest news and announcements.
Facebook: MedoraND
Instagram: Medora_ND
LITTLE PICTURES. BIG MOMENTS.