The University of Montana Western Fine Arts Gallery is honored to present “Our Working Hands”, a group show highlighting traditional western craftsmanship from Southwestern Montana. Featured artisans include Ross Miller, Freckers Saddlery, Schwarz Custom Boots, Justin Thorson, Terri Courtney, Mark Raffety, Loncey and Jessie Jo Johnson, Tony Pinheiro, and George Holt.
Traditional cowboy culture is alive and well in southwest Montana. These valleys are filled with working ranches and landscapes that have remained the same since being settled. This is a way of life for many here, creating a need for tools and tack used in cowboying and ranching. The craft behind building tools of this trade is an art rife with talented individuals quietly carving out a name for themselves within the tradition of cowboy culture in the American West. These objects, while utilitarian, result from choices made for function and artistic beauty.
The reception is free and open to all and will feature light refreshments and an artist talk at 6:00 p.m. The “Our Working Hands” exhibition will be open for viewing from November 1 to December 6, 2024. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For more information, please contact Montana Western Fine Arts Gallery Coordinator, Jennifer Boysen, at [email protected].
