Anyone visiting the Black Hills should take the time to look over the artwork inspired by the area. We have the exhibits influenced by the Native American culture at the Red Cloud School and the Annual Indian Art Show, The Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City, and just in case you may have missed it, we also have some famous rock sculpting like Mount Rushmore.

Four years ago, the Black Hills became the location for another, very distinct annual art display, the Custer Stampede. The featured pieces of work: life-sized fiberglass buffalo.

During the Stampede, 20 different artists create 20 bison, which are displayed throughout the city of Custer, inside some businesses, at the Crazy Horse Memorial and the lodge at Custer State park throughout the summer and fall months. The event also includes the creation of ten table-top buffalo and other forms of art such as paintings and outdoor sculptures.

At the end of the Custer Stampede in September, the public has the chance to meet the artists, and the life-sized bison and other buffalo-inspired pieces are sold to the highest bidder at an auction.

You might be wondering, what would someone do with a huge, decorated fiberglass buffalo? They’re actually quite impressive! Skilled artists put much time and effort into creating the flashy bison. Take a look here.

The public unveiling of the buffalo should occur on May 22-23 this year. For further info, contact director Petty Ressler at info@custerstampede.com and make sure to check out the Custer Stampede website.