Art of the Cowgirl 2019

Last February, I was blessed with two free 3 Day Passes to the inaugural Art of the Cowgirl event at Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds in Phoenix, Arizona. This event was birthed out of a problem Tammy Pate saw in the world. Female makers and artists in the western world are often overlooked due to the practicality of their craft and the fact that they are women. If someone wants to learn how to tool leather or engrave silver, they have to go out of their way and spend quite a bit of money to find someone to get them started. This is where Tammy Pate's dream begins.

Tammy, a boot maker and rancher herself, saw the need and conceived of the idea that would become Art of the Cowgirl. She hoped to create a place for women of all crafts and backgrounds to come together to showcase their skills and learn from each other. She wanted to be able to offer opportunities to women who were like her 20-something self, looking to learn a practical skill, but without the knowledge of where to start.

The initial 2019 event did all those things and more. I was able to talk one-on-one with a fine art equine photographer; to ask questions and learn from her. I was able to meet and learn from other talented women and women just like me: not born into the western way of life, but longing to be a part of it in any way possible. I learned from ranchers, painters, leather workers, and experienced horsemen and women. I learned ways to perfect my own art and the way I ride. I found opportunities to further my knowledge of the western culture, equine photography, and horsemanship. All from winning some free tickets off instagram. I am excited to say that I have been invited back and offered another free 3 Day Pass for this year's event, and I am wholeheartedly looking forward to it.

Want to know more about this year's event and the master artists? Check out Art of the Cowgirl's official website! Below you will find some photos featuring the Women's Ranch Rodeo, the venue, Brandi Phillips' trick riding demo, and more!