Art of the Cowgirl Raises Money for Fellowship Program

Corona Ranch – Phoenix, Arizona: Friday, February 8 – Sunday, February 10

The inaugural Art of the Cowgirl event is now less than a week away. An event such as this has been decades in the making – certainly one that will fulfill a need to not only preserve heritage but to also develop talent in emerging artists. And Tammy Pate, Art of the Cowgirl visionary,  is just the person to bring it to fruition.

The mission of Art of the Cowgirl is as follows:

“Our Purpose is Twofold: As Art of the Cowgirl not only Celebrates Accomplished Artisans and Horsewomen, but also Provides Funding for Emerging Artists in the Development of their Crafts and Businesses.”

“Through our Fellowship Program, which is a not-for-profit foundation, we will work to pair those who want to learn, with those who are ‘Masters’ at their crafts. Funding generated by the event will provide support for the Master, as well as the Fellowship Recipient.” – Tammy Pate

Tammy has been Stockmanship Expert Curt Pate’s partner and wife for over 31 years. She herself, is an accomplished horsemanship clinician, yoga instructor, and talented boot maker. “I have cherished the artistic and creative process of building a functioning, yet beautiful pair of boots – a piece of art.” – Tammy Pate, in an Art of the Cowgirl video promo.

Ms. Pate’s strong ranching, horsemanship, and stockmanship background, combined with her travels alongside her partner and husband Curt, have ushered Tammy down a path that has introduced her to a network of Master Artisans, mentors, and genuine friendships with other women within the Western Industry.

Art of the Cowgirl is all about giving back to the women, their partners, and their families that have meant so much to Tammy. Her grandmother, mother, sisters, and now daughter, have all played integral roles in living a “passion-filled, rich life” – and Art of the Cowgirl will be a gathering to share, as well as to celebrate, talents and functional creativity.

The Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship has been well-received; and for its inaugural year, promises to be a smashing success. It has been consistently gaining momentum, garnering sponsors and media attention throughout 2018. Anticipation has been high – and Tammy has received numerous applications for Fellowship awards – even from as far away as Australia.

There will be seven Fellowships awarded to deserving Recipients, via an application process.

The Masters and their areas of expertise are as follows:

Nancy Martiny – Saddle Maker

Teresa Black – Rawhide Braider/Horsehair Hitcher

Amy Raymond – Silversmith/Engraver

Kelly Martin – Boot Maker

Jan Mapes – Fine Artist

Constance Jaeggi – Photographer

Lee Smith – Horsewoman/Clinician

The very first Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship Recipient is Toni Tolle, a 31-year-old ranching wife and mother from Encampment, Wyoming.

“It’s a truly humbling experience to know out of all the applications, I was picked. I’m so grateful I get the opportunity to represent such a great fellowship and organization to promote the Western Arts. I look forward to learning from an amazing artist like Nancy Martiny.”, said Toni.

Toni has been awarded a Fellowship to spend time with her new Mentor, and Master Saddle Maker, Nancy Martini. Toni’s trip, stay, supplies, instruction, and business education are all-inclusive; and she will be leaving Nancy’s workshop with a finished saddle. But more importantly, Toni will have a viable prospect of adding to her family’s income and carry on her father’s legacy; as he was a saddle maker by trade as well.

Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship Funds will be raised via individual donations, as well as during auxiliary events, taking place during the three days at the Art of the Cowgirl gathering.  Some of the main fundraising events include an Art Auction (Friday, February 8); Fellowship Auction (Saturday, February 9); All Women’s Ranch Rodeo (Friday and Saturday, February 8 & 9); and an Elite Horse Sale (Sunday, February 10).

Individual donations are accepted, via a partnership with Equine Empowerment, a Colorado-based 501(c)(3). CLICK HERE to learn how to play a role in raising funds for the Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship.

Join us at the historic Corona Ranch, just outside Phoenix, Arizona – February 8-10, and rub elbows with Masters of the Western Industry; shop and enjoy perusing many unique booths at the Art of the Cowgirl Tradeshow; attend a horsemanship clinic; soak in a concert; and enjoy the beauty, grace, grit, authenticity, and kindness of the people of Art of the Cowgirl!

Cowboy Lifestyle Network is proud to be a media partner in this upcoming event. We excited to announce that you can now buy discounted tickets using the code Lifestyle20 on their website.  Make sure to also follow Art of the Cowgirl on Facebook and Instagram for all of the latest updates!