Preserving the Legacy of Western Functional Art in Cody, WY
Nestled in the heart of Cody, Wyoming—where the spirit of the West runs deep—By Western Hands (BWH) is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich tradition of Western functional art and design. Through a three-part mission of education, conservation, and perpetuation, BWH serves as both a guardian of history and a champion for the future of this uniquely American art form.
At the core of BWH’s mission are three key elements: a museum and archive, educational training programs, and a legacy artisan gallery. These initiatives ensure that the craftsmanship and traditions of Western artisans are not only honored but actively passed down to future generations.
A Living Archive of Western Design
The Archives of By Western Hands provide scholars, artists, and enthusiasts with invaluable access to the history of American Western design. This collection documents the work and influence of past and present artisans, offering a glimpse into the inspirations, techniques, and innovations that have shaped this timeless craft. Education and preservation are at the heart of everything we do, making BWH a vital link between the artisans of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Hands-On Learning: Where Craftsmanship Comes to Life
BWH isn’t just about preserving history—it’s about creating the future. Through customized educational programs, public workshops, and live artist demonstrations, we provide hands-on learning experiences that empower the next generation of artisans. The Grainger Demonstration Shop serves as a vibrant workspace where Master Artisans share their knowledge, teaching techniques that elevate craftsmanship from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine learning directly from the finest artisans—standing beside masters like Thomas Molesworth, Paul Hindman, Edward Bohlin, or Ken Siggins. That’s the kind of opportunity BWH makes possible.
A Gallery That Supports Tradition and Innovation
BWH continues the legacy of Cody High Style and the Western Design Conference, but as a nonprofit organization, our focus extends beyond exhibitions—we are dedicated to education and preservation. Every purchase made in our Legacy Artisan Gallery directly supports initiatives that keep Western functional art alive for generations to come. Our gallery showcases handcrafted works by the most talented artisans of the past thirty years, as well as today’s rising stars in Western design.
At By Western Hands, we are more than an organization—we are a movement to sustain and elevate the craft of Western functional art. Located in the heart of Cody, WY, we invite you to be part of this living legacy—whether as a learner, supporter, or collector of one-of-a-kind Western artistry.
“Western Functional Art is, at its core, the most tangible way to connect with the pioneering spirit of the West that lies in us all. It represents a sense of adventure, a reverence for the past, and pride in craftsmanship – all qualities we should strive to carry on for generations. Creating an archive would allow By Western Hands to spark the interest and creativity of new makers and collectors, ensuring the legacy of this beautiful art form and preserving it for the future.” – Casey Lasky, Interior Designer with Wyatt & Associates, Inc., on the Cook Canyon Ranch Project, Dallas, Texas
By Western Hands is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Today, we have a unique opportunity to take meaningful action that will provide a future for western design for generations to come.
