BLM Selects First Artist for New White Mountains Artist in Residence Program

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BLM

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Fairbanks District Office

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Fairbanks, AK—The Bureau of Land Management has selected local artist Sarah DeGennaro as the first Artist-in-Residence for the White Mountains National Recreation Area. The BLM will be hosting DeGennaro April 14–18 at the Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter in the White Mountains.

DeGennaro is a resident of Fairbanks and has been active in the local art community for several years. A graduate of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, DeGennaro has had her art exhibited at the National Science Foundation and at numerous private and group displays. Her artwork has also appeared in interpretive materials for the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge in Fairbanks.

“I have enjoyed the easily accessible wilderness setting of the White Mountains, and I believe my art can both encourage people to take advantage of this nearby retreat and prolong their experience,” DeGennaro said. 

The artist in residence program is open to emerging or established artists working in nearly any media – including painting, printmaking, photography, writing, and music. The BLM provides transportation between Fairbanks and the selected site, but artists are responsible for their daily expenses. Artists are expected to donate the use of a piece of artwork inspired by their residency to help promote public lands.

The BLM eventually plans on offering several residencies annually in different seasons and locations, including another in the White Mountains and a summer residency in the Fortymile region.

More information can be obtained from Craig Tanner at ctanner@blm.gov or 907-474-2321.


The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.