Humans have created art in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming for at least 3,000 years. Journalist Bob Bahr examines why the rugged countryside of the area has proved so inspiring---and discovers a rich history and persisting beauty that makes art-making in the Winds feel nearly inevitable. From the petroglyphs of early inhabitants to the cowboys, cowgirls, ranchers, and other residents who feel compelled to depict their world in art today, artists in and around the Wind River Mountains and Valley are a diverse group. This book uncovers the history, people, anecdotes, and, of course, the art of creators from Albert Bierstadt to Alfred Jacob Miller, from Thomas Moran to Tom Lucas. Richly researched from more than 50 sources including in-person interviews, Taking Root in Rocky Soil tells the tale of art in the Winds through the words, creations, and ideas of museum officials, archaeologists, artists, local historians, and ranchers.