By Finley Timon EDITORIAL INTERN
Editor’s note: Outlaw Partners is the producer of Wildlands and the publisher of Explore Big Sky.
When Courtney Collins saw David Yarrow’s new photograph, “Million Dollar Cowboy,” she didn’t just see her next big art piece. She saw a way to give back. The limited edition color photo will be featured in this year’s Wildlands art auction.
“He’s famous for bar shots, and I was so excited when he finally shot the Cowboy Bar,” said Collins, owner of Courtney Collins Fine Art in Big Sky Town Center. “I have roots in Jackson Hole, so it meant a lot to me personally. I’m incredibly proud to hang this picture.”
Yarrow is best known for his dramatic black and white work, but Collins said this image stands out. “He doesn’t do many color photographs, but when he does, it’s for a reason,” she said. “This one certainly calls for it. It’s fabulous.”
Yarrow’s talent does not go unrecognized.
“David Yarrow just got voted the tenth most searched artist in 2024 by Artsy,” Collins said. “Artsy is the world’s top art marketplace, so that’s an incredible honor. He’s one of the most famous photographers in the world, and it’s a true honor to represent him.”
The framed print is part of a limited edition and nearly sold out.
“This is going to be a very unique opportunity to get this picture and this size,” Collins said. “That’s a big part of why I wanted it in the auction.”
Collins said she approached Yarrow directly about donating the piece after admiring the Wildlands event last year. “I just remember thinking, how do I make sure I’m part of that next year?” she said. “This was my chance.”
The Wildlands auction beneficiaries this year are the Center for Large Landscape Conservation and American Rivers. For Collins, that mission made the decision easy.
“It’s a huge part of my heart to help in that way because I just love animals so much,” she said. “Supporting American Rivers and the CLLC is definitely close to my heart.”
Collins opened her gallery in 2020 and represents a curated group of esteemed artists, including Ben Steele, Kenneth Peloke and Yarrow.
“I’ve worked hard to make this a place where every piece tells a story,” she said. “The gallery is small, but it’s full of meaning.”
Wildlands auction bidding is open now through July 31.
