Art of the Cowgirl in Queen Creek offers all-women rodeo, roping competition
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Celebrate women of the West at the Art of the Cowgirl gathering Jan. 18-22.
The event, hosted at Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre in the Town of Queen Creek, will showcase the very best of woman-made Western artistry, horsemanship and craftsmanship.
Founded by Montana-born and raised horsewoman Tammy Pate, Art of the Cowgirl celebrates female artists of all disciplines, according to a press release.
Looking for tickets? Go HERE.
Women can register to participate in a diverse pool of competitions, hands-on workshops, trade shows and rodeos to not only showcase established artists but encourage growth and exposure for emerging talent. Workshops are multi-day and led by masters of each craft, providing opportunities to learn everything from silversmithing and rawhide braiding to photography and leather carving, the release states.
“Each cowgirl is as unique as the boots she wears, and we’re celebrating that through providing diverse, interactive activities” said Ms. Pate, whose personal outlet for artistic expression is the craft of boot-making. “It is our hope that attendees discover their new passion at any of the 14 workshops available.”
Cowgirls from across the country will demonstrate proficiency in equestrian sports during the event. Competitions include Kimes Ranch World’s Greatest Horsewoman, All Women’s Ranch Rodeo presented by COWGIRL Magazine, Breakaway Roping presented by Merck Animal Health, Vaquero Style Roping competition, and a Cowdog Trial.
Throughout the five-day event, a curated trade show will display original artwork, apparel, gear, gifts and accessories.
Art of the Cowgirl guests can witness the process of a creative vision come to life on canvases during the “Quick Draw” competition co-hosted by the Cowgirl Artists of America, in which participating painters will quickly render artwork for the event’s silent auction. Funds will benefit Art of the Cowgirl’s artist fellowship program, empowering women with resources and supplies to pursue and perpetuate traditional artistic trades.
Art of the Cowgirl 2023 celebrates fellowship
“This year, we’re really focusing on the fellowships and artists by providing a space to create and connect with Western culture,” said Ms. Pate. “We encourage everyone to come take it all in and support our artists.” The event also includes a live Art Auction and Elite Horse and Cowdog Sale on Saturday night.
Appreciation for the arts will go beyond the tangible: Joni and Olivia Harms, Savana Chesnut, the Moons, Kristen Esper, Christina Barns, Santa Ynez, Dan Wirth and Ashley Wescott will take the stage throughout the event and get boots clicking during festive live performances.
Tickets to Art of the Cowgirl are on sale now with single-day passes starting at $60. Five-day passes are $195, and the VIP-tier five-day pass is $495.
Looking for tickets? Go HERE.
