Renowned western American artist M.C. “Mike” Poulsen, one of the Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale’s perennial artists and twice the event’s Honored Artist, is also a great art instructor. On Dec. 1, Poulsen draws on both his artistic and teaching talent at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West’s “Painting with Poulsen” Date Night.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Participants will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar featuring seasonal mulled wine and other beverages. Poulsen takes the stage at 6 p.m. to begin the art lesson, leading the group as everyone paints their own canvas with his creative guidance. No prior artistic experience is necessary.

The use of painting supplies (easel, brushes, palette, canvas, smock, and paint) is included for the event, with each participant’s painted work of art theirs to take home at the end of the evening. Those who plan to bring their own painting gear and supplies are asked to email publicrelations@centerofthewest.org in advance.

Tickets for “Painting with Poulsen” Date Night are $75 per person, with Center of the West members enjoying a rate of $65. Seating is limited for this hands-on event, so early registration is encouraged and can be done online at tickets.centerofthewest.org.

More information, as well as a link to purchase tickets online, can be found at centerofthewest.org/event/painting-with-poulsen-date-night/.

Poulsen was raised on a cattle and outfitting ranch near Cody. His love for the West evolved from working and painting the people he has met and the scenes he has observed through the years. Poulsen’s sensitivity in his work not only comes from first-hand knowledge of what he is painting, but from his own adversity.

Several of his paintings of Yellowstone’s waterfalls are currently on exhibit in the center’s special exhibition, “Yellowstone: For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People,” on view through Jan. 29. Learn more about M.C. Poulsen and his work at mcpoulsenart.com.