In 2003 an idea was hatched to raise funds for the C.M. Russell Museum while celebrating the upcoming Lewis & Clark bicentennial in 2005 – a unique fundraising effort that would give artists the opportunity to paint nearly life-sized bison that would be sponsored and placed around town for public enjoyment. The Buffalo Hunt was born.
Co-chairs Kitty Wright and Carol Mungas worked with Joe Halko, a sculptor from nearby Choteau, Montana, to create the original bison model that was then brought to life in fiberglass by Fiberstock, Inc in Buffalo, Minnesota. The 26 bison and 4 calves then made their way back to Great Falls where artists transformed their bison into a unique work of art. The Buffalo Hunt made its debut in spring of 2005 and many remain cherished pieces of public art to this day.
To learn more and see images of each completed bison, read the Buffalo Hunt guide by clicking on the image below.
Want to participate in the Buffalo Hunt? Click here to see the list of last known locations.
Be sure to tag us on Facebook and Instagram as you find the bison around town!
