Queen Creek's heart beats with the spirit of the American West this week, as the Art of the Cowgirl event unfolds. Running from Jan. 17-21, this five-day fest valiantly celebrates the multifaceted talents of Western women—ranging from artisans to rodeo mavens, with a pivotal dedication to the late founder Tammy Pate who passed in December.
According to 12 News, Niki Flundra, esteemed horse trainer and one of the World's Greatest Horsewoman competitors, will grace the arena with horsemanship that doesn't rely on reins or saddles. This display of skill, she described, necessitates a “really good connection with your horse.” Flundra intends to honor Pate's legacy on Saturday night with a special performance aimed at keeping the vision of Art of the Cowgirl alive.
The loss of Tammy Pate has left a reverent silence in the rodeo world, filled only by the sounds of homage and respect this week. With a career and a relationship with Tammy that spans over three decades, Curt Pate reminisced to 12 News about his late wife's impeccable attention to detail and knack for drawing people together—even amidst the backdrop of chaos synonymous with rodeo events.
Towards the event's close, Tammy's influence and inspiration will take center stage as family and friends gather Sunday afternoon for remembrance. Embracing her spirit, the event marches on with workshops, competitions, and an art auction celebrating Western femininity and skill. Artisans, silversmiths, saddlemakers, and horsemanship demos showcase the essential roles women play, perpetuating the Western heritage Tammy Pate championed fervently.
In a reflection of Tammy’s mission, Art of the Cowgirl also gears to foster new talent. With an array of activities, the festivities are as much about competition as they are about education and growth for emerging artists. As reported by SI's FanNation, funds raised during the event are set aside for fellowships, enabling up-and-coming creators to apprentice with masters, thus ensuring the old ways find new hands.
Whether one is there to compete, learn, or simply be part of the lively atmosphere, this year's Art of the Cowgirl not just salutes the legacy of its founder, but also the enduring and vivacious community of cowgirls who continue to shape the Western world.
