The Hans Kleiber Studio Museum

Hours: Tues - Sat, 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

The historic log cabin studio of world famous German-born etching artist Hans Kleiber (1887-1967) is on Main St. in Dayton, less than a mile from where Hans originally built it behind his home.

Kleiber, a U.S. Forest Ranger, was inspired by the majesty of the Bighorn Mountains to write poetry and sketch with pencils and ink. With a desire to produce prints of his work, Hans amazingly taught himself the complex art process of etching and printing metal plates. He gave up forestry in 1923 to pursue art full-time. Kleiber’s etchings drew a large number of collectors, showing all over the U.S. and also in Europe. His work is still sought after by collectors.

Hans Kleiber’s art reflects the natural beauty of the Bighorn Mountains, as well as life in and around the town of Dayton in the early to mid 1900's. The church in the etching, “My Home Town”, is still in use and has changed little since his time, although Dayton no longer sports a blacksmith shop, pool hall, or milk cows wandering the streets.

Kleiber’s studio looks much like it did when he used it. His furniture, books, art supplies, etching tools and famous printing press are on display, as well as photos of the artist at work. Several etchings and original, one of a kind works by Kleiber grace the rustic walls of his studio.

The Kleiber Studio Museum is open and free to the public during the summer months. Hours are Wed-Sun, 1:00-6:00 pm. Local artists work in the museum through a Resident Artist Program. They can give you information on area attractions, businesses and some history of our beautiful little town. Don’t pass through Dayton without stopping by the studio of famous artist Hans Kleiber.