Gullikson Named AAI's Art Benefactor of the Year

SEELEY LAKE – Kris Gullikson was completely surprised when she received the Alpine Artisan's 2018 Art Benefactor Award at Alpine Artisan's, Inc. Annual meeting in January. During the presentation, AAI Project Manager Jenny Rohrer called Gullikson a leader, dreamer, communicator, recruiter and collaborator for her years of work with AAI.

Gullikson said she has been a member "in heart" since AAI started in 1991. When she moved to Seeley Lake full time in 2008 she officially joined and "jumped in."

A graphic designer by trade, Gullikson volunteered her talents to help create promotional materials for AAI events for many years before getting paid. She served on the AAI Board for nearly five years serving as president for three terms, one year as co-president with Russ Abolt and Past President for one year. She has been a member of the AAI Youth Grants and Scholarship committee as well as on most of the event committees.

"I even dreamed up a few events," said Gullikson. Two main ones include Painting for a Dream at the Rich's Montana Guest Ranch and AAI's Spring Talent Show.

Even though she is no longer on the board, Gullikson still does the artwork for the Tour of the Arts and fills in where needed. She also has more time to paint and has started monthly painting classes entitled "Uncorked and Creative" in her studio.

"I do all things AAI - even hosted the artists once for 2 Valleys Stage AND make cookies," wrote Gullikson.

Every year the AAI Board nominates and selects an AAI member or community member to recognize for their contributions to the cultural life of the valleys over a period of years.

"This year's winner is a perfect example of those qualities," said Rohrer during the announcement speech.

Rohrer highlighted many of Gullikson's talents that she has used to further AAI's mission. She said Gullikson, not only being a graphic designer but also a painter, encouraged other aspiring artists and has recruited members of the community to get involved in AAI. She conceived events that are now staples for AAI and "she's a collaborator. As a staff person, I enjoyed working closely with her for years – she's careful, conscientious and a visionary."

Gullikson's friend and AAI Board member Belinda Rich also spoke about Gullikson's accomplishments with AAI, specifically the Painting for a Dream workshop that is in its fifth year.

Together they bring in guest artists to teach and learn from and use the workshop as a venue to raise funds for the AAI Youth Scholarship Fund.

"It was Kris who gave our project 'wings.' Now, Kris continues to reach out by teaching her own Uncorked & Creative [painting classes] in her studio," said Rich. "Her work is local, it's about where we live and who we are."

Gullikson said it was very touching to be recognized for her hard work. She received roses and a $200 gift certificate.

"It is always a nice thing to get recognition by an organization that you have put so much time and effort into," said Gullikson. "When I was on the board it was really hard to [choose the benefactor]. I remember a lot of people who haven't gotten the award and they have been working really hard with all their heart for many years."