Tippet Rise
A nice fall day in September 2025 was the perfect time to witness how vision, advocacy, art, and environment converge at the Tippet Rise Art Center. As a consultant specializing in owner advocacy, legacy projects and experienced with outdoor sculpture installations, I had the opportunity to meet with staff, tour, and see the property. I look at the built environment through a holistic lens that balances the ambitious spirit, vision, environment, context, and logistics of the site. Tippet Rise is a gem for Montana, and the greater cultural community. I see more wonderful things ahead for them.
Backtrack
A bit of background on my perspective and interest with sculpture projects and cultural facilities. In the mid 2000’s I was tasked to lead a team at Getty to acquire and install a gift of outdoor sculpture from the estate of Fran and Ray Stark. The outcome was The Fran and Ray Sculpture Garden at Getty Center in Los Angeles. My thoughts at that time:
- How would this collection be integrated into the architecture and landscape at Getty Center? Assembling and managing the right team was critical and included representatives from the estate, the architect, the landscape architect, conservation and curatorial experts, grounds, and gardens.
- Putting a successful team together was just the beginning. Thinking about and understanding why the Stark Collection was created was next, followed by how it would be integrated into the modernism of Getty Center architecture, fine gardens, landscape, and the visitor experience.
- Visiting and chatting with folks at The National Gallery Sculpture Garden in Washington DC, The Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas and Kimball Museum, Fort Worth was invaluable in formulating the plan and legacy decisions.
- The Getty team did an outstanding job, and I am proud of their work.
Now Back to Tippet Rise
Located on an amazing 12,000+ acre ranch in Fishtail, Montana with iconic views, Tippet Rise is a testament to what happens when the project vision and mission is well conceived, articulated, and executed. The sculptures and built environment lightly touch the land while respecting the existing landscape and context of big sky country. It feels like “old” Montana whilst combining art, presentation, music, architecture, land, food, hiking, movement, and air. The place has a sustainable vibe. Outstanding. In a way it is reminiscent of the 500-acre Storm King Art Center in Hudson Valley, but with a wilder open edge.
Owner Advocacy
Large-scale projects like Tippet Rise require more than just funding; they require a stewardship and governance legacy mindset from the beginning. The Tippet Rise staff understands the vision and mission through their purposeful work. You see that on their website and when you visit their site. Tippet Rise respects the community and provides visitors with many ways to experience the grounds and sculptures through guided and self-guided tours, and concerts and performances. Their annual drawing for seats ensures everyone has equal access to tickets.
Outdoor Sculpture Highlights
I found several standout installations at Tippet Rise.
Alexander Calder’s Two Discs. The dark color against the autumn dry Montana landscape reminded me of my work planning the installation of a Calder sculpture at Getty overlooking the city. The sculptures make me smile whenever I see it.
Patrick Dougherety’s Daydreams. Daydream is the word which touches on land, sky, and endless possibilities.
Richard Serra’s Crossroads II. This open sky installation juxtaposed with his la materia del tiempo at Guggenheim Bilboa is the antitheist housed and covered inside.
Beyond the Sculpture
The success of Tippet Rise isn’t just in the art you see; it is multifaceted like the Western landscape. Tippet Rise is a legacy working ranch revered by early Montana painters, home to Indigenous people, and encompasses innovative ideas on how to experience the arts and culture by hiking, biking, and musical performances. It is a treasured cultural center. Experience this magical place for yourself; it’s worth the trek.