Yippie ki-yay!  I’ve been asked to be a judge at this year’s Western Design Conference in Jackson, WY, and am excited to have the opportunity to participate in a show that attracts many of the leading western craftsmen, artisans and designers in the country. 
 
Western spirit started when the first person set foot off the Mayflower.  The essence of Western spirit comes from the appreciation of the Native Americans who were here long before this country was formed combined with the settlers who made their way westward to start a new life in a restless land.  The traits of survival, endurance, and perseverance created strength of character that still exists in those living in the Western states. 
 
The artistry that’s come from necessity is uniquely austere in design and beauty.  Primarily using natural materials, it’s an inspiration to see the high quality of craftsmanship inspired by the wind and the sun, the beauty of the mountains, and the openness that surrounds us in the West.  The entrants of this show include leather, metal, accents, woodworking, jewelry and fashion.  I’m attracted to elements that capture the purity of western spirit in a modern piece of functional art.  I’ll update you in September on the highlights of the show. 
 
Here are samples of some of these artists.  Also check out an example of my interpretation of western abstract photography, Sweetwater Grass, Dreamweaver and Shoshoni Territory that have been used as a backdrop on display at the design conference for the past two years.

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