How do I donate an artwork to the museum?
We appreciate your consideration and our Senior Curator will be happy to review the object to determine if it fits our collection scopes programming needs. Please send a photograph and a letter about the object to the Senior Curator's attention at the Yellowstone Art Museum, 401 N. 27th St., Billings, MT 59101 or call to make an appointment (406) 256-6804, ext. 230.

I found a painting in my grandmother's attic. Is it real? What's it worth?
We regret that we cannot perform appraisals or issue certificates of authenticity. You can find a certified appraiser at appraisers.org/findappraiser. An auction resource like Christie's or Sotheby's — or even an online auction site like ebay.com or artprice.com — can help you learn more about the value of your object. Our curatorial staff, however, will be happy to offer observations within their areas of expertise pertaining to the historic and aesthetic qualities of a work.

Where can I learn more about a specific artist or type of art?
You can research artists and art in many different ways. Start your search online at a site like artcyclopedia.com or askart.com. You should also search your local library — librarians are great at getting hard-to-find information, so be sure to ask! The Museum also has a small non-circulating library, which may be used by appointment. Please call the Registrar at (406) 256-6804, ext. 227.

I am an artist. Would the YAM consider me for a solo exhibition?
Solo exhibitions are rare. Artists may send exhibition announcements and other information about their work. Our Senior Curator will be happy to review these materials. Artists may send digital images or links to online portfolios to the Senior Curator at curator@artmuseum.org, or (406) 256-6804, ext. 230.

Does the Museum buy art?
We do occasionally consider art for purchase and ask that you send us a photograph with a letter telling us about the object (include information on how you acquired it) and the terms of your sale. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words! Please do not bring it to the Museum unless you already have an appointment.

I have an artwork that needs to be cleaned. Who should I call?
The Museum does not endorse specific conservators. Excellent information on selecting a conservator is available on the American Institute for Conservation website at aic.stanford.edu/public/select.html.

I need to move a large painting or sculpture. How do I do it?
There are a limited number of companies that specialize in fine art handling and shipping both locally and nationwide. For crating or shipping outside the region, you can try usart.com, artexfas.com, or atelier4.com. The Museum does not endorse any specific art handling and shipping companies. Depending upon the nature of the job, the Museum's technical staff may also be available for hire. Please contact the Senior Curator at curator@artmuseum.org, or (406) 256-6804, ext. 230.

I need to have a work of art framed. Can you recommend someone?
Matting and framing is done by many businesses in our area. Some practice the most current conservation methods available. It's up to you to request the level of care you want. The American Institute for Conservation can tell you what kinds of questions to ask, visit aic.stanford.edu/library/online/brochures/matt.html.