What's Happening?
Wyoming has consistently excelled in the National Archeology Celebration Poster Contest, sponsored by the Society for American Archeology, for the past 30 years. The state has secured a top-three award in all but six or seven instances since the contest's
inception in 1996, and has claimed first prize 13 times. This annual contest is part of Archeology Awareness Month, observed every September across all 50 U.S. states, featuring public events and educational initiatives. Gwendolyn Kristy, the state coordinator for Wyoming Archeology Awareness Month, plays a pivotal role in coordinating the poster's concept, execution, printing, and distribution. This year's poster, which also serves as Wyoming's semi-official poster for America 250, features a commissioned artwork by Robert Martinez of Riverton. The artwork, developed with Kristy's input, depicts a Plains Indian woman and a horse on a historic map of Wyoming, incorporating elements like a travois and petroglyphs to reflect the state's uncolonized history in 1776 and the relationship between Native Americans and horses.
Why It's Important?
Wyoming's consistent success in the National Archeology Celebration Poster Contest highlights the state's commitment to public education and engagement in cultural heritage. The contest serves as a vital tool for raising awareness about archeology and its significance, transforming complex historical information into accessible and artistic forms. This initiative not only educates the public, particularly children, but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the state's rich past and the importance of preserving archeological sites. The involvement of local artists, like Robert Martinez, and the commissioning of original artwork, as seen in this year's poster, also supports the arts community and integrates artistic expression with scientific and historical themes. The program's reliance on fundraising, rather than a dedicated state budget, underscores the passion and dedication of individuals like Gwendolyn Kristy and the broader community in sustaining such valuable educational endeavors.
What's Next?
The current year's commissioned artwork will be auctioned off on the evening of September 25th at the new Capitol Auditorium, following a public lecture. The proceeds from this auction will be used to fund the production of the 2027 Archeology Awareness Month poster, demonstrating a sustainable model for the program. Gwendolyn Kristy is already planning for the next poster, maintaining a roster of ideas to ensure continuity. The posters, which are printed in quantities of 2,000, are distributed free of charge at various locations across Wyoming, including the anthropology building in Laramie, the Barrett building in Cheyenne, the State Museum, state parks, and Forest Service offices. Individuals can also request a mailed poster, covering the shipping cost. This ongoing effort ensures that archeological education remains accessible to the public and continues to promote the understanding and preservation of Wyoming's cultural heritage.
Beyond the Headlines
The Wyoming Archeology Awareness Month poster program, while seemingly a simple educational initiative, carries deeper implications for cultural identity and historical preservation. By consistently producing high-quality, art-integrated posters, Wyoming is actively shaping public perception of its past, emphasizing the contributions of Native Americans and the natural history of the region. The program's focus on accuracy, such as depicting Wyoming as uncolonized in 1776, challenges common historical narratives and promotes a more nuanced understanding of the past. The inclusion of elements like the travois and petroglyphs not only educates about ancient technologies and art but also highlights ongoing preservation efforts, such as protecting rock art from cattle damage. This blend of art, history, and community engagement creates a powerful tool for fostering a sense of place and collective responsibility towards cultural heritage, demonstrating how local initiatives can have a significant impact on statewide awareness and appreciation.
