Arlee photographer wins statewide art contest

The Montana Community Foundation announced the winners of its second-annual Images that Shape Montana art contest. The grand prize winner is Jordan Lefler of Arlee for his photo, titled “Still Here.”

He will receive $1,500, and his winning submission will be featured on the cover of the Montana Community Foundation’s annual report, in other publications, and on social media. 

"This image was created as part of a series bringing awareness to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis in Montana," Lefler's artist statement states. "Photographed at night, I used a single flash to bring the subject out of the darkness, a visual reminder of the women and families whose stories too often go unseen. This project was about using art to bring attention, visibility, and a voice to an issue that continues to deeply affect Indigenous communities across our state."

The contest shows how philanthropy shapes our communities, landscapes, and future. Acceptable media included photography, digital art, illustration, painting, and mixed media. The contest was open to Montana-based artists and photographers of all levels, ages 16 and up.

“Montana has a proud and long tradition of artists who shape how we experience our state,” said Montana Community Foundation President & CEO Mary Rutherford. “We started this contest last year to provide another venue to showcase the incredible talent in the state and connect the generosity of the people who live here. We are excited to see how much it’s grown in such a short period of time.”

Category winners each receive $500 and include:

Danielle O’Malley of Helena for her “Cross Roads” in the category of Community & Economic Vitality

Kami Love of Red Lodge for her photo titled “Cowboy’s Companion” in the category of Education, Equity & Culture

Juli Pace of Bozeman for her piece “The Greater Good” in the category of Health & Well-Being

Emilee Luke of Havre for her piece “Golden Hour Magic” in the category of Land & Resiliency