Finney to share the jug

Since its inception 20 years ago the Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering has featured art work by Wyoming artists. The first three years drawings by Gollings of Sheridan were used. For the past 17 years noted western and wildlife artist R. G. Finney of Riverside has drawn and donated a framed painting to the GECG Outfit for use as a fund raiser.

Art work for this year's posters, flyers, programs and promotional material again comes from the brush of Finney and is a framed Giclee painting entitled "Sharing the Jug". (See accompanying photo of this striking drawing.)

R. G. and his wife Lynn have donated this beautifully framed painting to the Outfit and it will be raffled at the Cowboy Poetry and Music show Saturday night, July 16th. Since almost everyone who attends the event wants the unique one-of-a-kind painting, the committee sells raffle tickets and then selects the lucky winner.

Born in Ontario, Canada, a Green Beret decorated seven times in Vietnam, R. G. traded a career in the military for life as an artist. It was a wise decision, because in the years since, he has become recognized as one of America's premier wildlife and western artists. His work has appeared on magazine covers and sold out at numerous art exhibits.

Lynn was born, raised and educated in Encampment. She attended the University of Wyoming and served as a flight attendant, manager of heath spa, gymnastic coach, aerobics teacher and now owns and operates the "Spirit West River Lodge B&B" east of Riverside. She is active in the community and sings in the Encampment Community Choir.