Complementing a week full of dogs, sheep, good food, artisans and all things fun will be the annual Meeker Classic International Art Contest and Culinary Taste of Lamb Cook-off.
The Lamb Cook-off, held in conjunction with the art reception from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wilbur Barn on Thursday Sept. 10, will feature lamb recipes prepared by local chefs and vendors at the Meeker Classic Sheepdog trials. Event organizers have opened up a limited number of spots for local citizens who would like to share their culinary skills.
Appetizer portions of lamb served during the art reception demonstrate the taste, quality and variety of uses for American lamb in today’s lifestyle.
Colorado-grown lamb will be provided to contest participants free of charge.
Jesper Jonsson, a Boulder chef and prior Meeker resident, will be the official judge for the competition. Lamb, art and refreshments provide the ingredients for a great evening that has become a favorite for many during the trials.
If interested in entering the cook-off, contact Mary Ann Wilber at 970-220-2025 or [email protected]. Spaces are limited, so please don’t delay.
With a 28-year history, the Meeker Sheepdog Classic International Art Contest continues to be a favorite among Meeker residents, spectators and handlers as well. Diverse in its origins and rich in creativity, the show presents a magnificent art experience that brings together some of the best original sheepdog artwork to be found.
The group exhibition was selected through a jury process and will be judged by Meeker High School art instructor Ben Quinn.
All artwork may be viewed prior to the trials at the Meeker Public Library and during the trials in the Wilbur Barn at the trial site.
Cash awards will be given to first, second, the Shirlee Coy Best of NW Colorado Award, the People’s Choice Award and the Johnny Wix Children’s Choice Award. The Children’s Choice Award will be selected by the more than 500 students from Northwest Colorado that will visit the trials through the School Outreach Program.
Spectators will vote on the People’s Choice Award winner during the art reception, located at the Wilbur Barn on Sept. 10.
All artwork is available for purchase through a silent auction, which closes on Sunday, Sept. 13. The 2015 first place artwork will be the official artwork used to celebrate the Meeker Classic’s 30th anniversary in 2016.
For more information on both events and the Meeker Classic, visit www.meekersheepdog.com or call 970-878-0111.
