A Modern Impact: The Work of Rudy and Lela Autio

On display Sept. 13-Nov. 29, “A Modern Impact” celebrates the legacy of Rudy and Lela Autio, who helped pave the way for the modern art movement in Montana. From roots in Butte and Great Falls, Rudy and Lela made their mark in the art history books after nearly 60 years of dedication to art making and advocacy. Both attended Montana State University in the late 40s (then Montana State College) where they first met and worked alongside Pete Voulkos, Frances Senska, Jessie Wilber, Bob and Gennie DeWeese, and many others.
Rudy who worked primarily in ceramics, helped build and develop the Archie Bray Clay Center in Helena and started the ceramics program at the University of Montana, Missoula. Lela, who loved to draw and paint, became an art teacher at Hellgate High for 10 years and a strong activist for the arts.
On display Aug. 30 through Nov. 22 in the Weaver Room is “Portraits of the Blackfeet” by Melanie Alvarez-Home Gun. The artist’s figurative paintings the ways in which “my people are connected to the earth, filled with the spirit of life, and are part of the earth.”