Studying, sharing and preserving cowboy artisan traditions [this grant will support the design, production and two installations of a panel exhibit presenting a compelling story about these traditions…

Studying, sharing and preserving cowboy artisan traditions [this grant will support the design, production and two installations of a panel exhibit presenting a compelling story about these traditions and the culture they express, including a display of the beauty of the work and the skill of practitioners. The first installation will take place at the buffalo bill center of the west in cody, wyoming, the largest cultural institution in wyoming from july 20- august 10, 2024. The second will take place at the new rocky mountain folk school in grand view, colorado from august 15-september 10. Following these two confirmed installations, the exhibit will travel around our region for 18 months in both rural and urban settings. Each installation will be accompanied by talks and demos by local artisans and by presentations to town councils, service clubs and high school classes, increasing recognition and appreciation for local talent. These presentations will be designed to spark long-term supportive relationships with local institutions. We will be reaching out to museums, historical societies, libraries, businesses, local government, art centers, schools and universities to join this preservation effort, all motivated by a shared admiration for these traditions and love of their hometowns.]