BILLINGS, MONTANA -- The Yellowstone Art Museum has reopened its doors after a two-year, $6.2 million renovation and expansion. The new facility, which includes seven galleries, a meeting room, education studio, and museum store, enables the Museum to host larger numbers of regional visitors and offers a unique venue for group tours.

The largest single collection of Will James paintings, drawings, books, photographs and memorabilia in the nation is part of the Museum's permanent collection. Additional pieces in the permanent collections include contemporary and historic art from nationally-recognized regional artists such as Deborah Butterfield and Russell Chatham The Yellowstone Art Museum is the only accredited art museum in a three-state area with a major commitment to collect, catalog and exhibit the work of living regional artists.

"This is a regional gem that's a 'must see' for all leisure and group travelers visiting the Billings area. The new facility will offer a very unique setting for receptions and group activities," stated John Brewer, Director of the Billings Chamber Convention and Visitors Council.

The artistic, two-story gallery complex is located in downtown Billings. According to the Museum's architect, Thomas Hacker, "the building design recognizes the local context by drawing upon the gabled volumes, stone walls and front porches of ranches in Montana's Big Sky Country."

"It's the only facility of its kind between Boise, Idaho, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Calgary, Alberta and Denver, Colorado," said Donna Forbes, Yellowstone Art Museum Executive Director.

The Museum has been closed to the public since March of 1996, when it began renovation. The Yellowstone Art Museum is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. The Museum is closed on Mondays and holidays. The Museum can be reached at 406-256-6804 or visit their web site at yellowstone.artmuseum.org for more information. For general Billings, Montana information, call the Billings Chamber Visitor Information Center at 1-800-735-2635 or visit their web site at http://billingscvb.visitmt.com.