For more than three decades, the Western Design Conference has been one of the most respected showcases of Western art, craftsmanship, and design in the country. Originally founded in Cody, Wyoming and later held in Jackson for nearly two decades, the event is now entering a new chapter as it prepares to move to Bozeman, Montana in 2026. In this episode, Mollie Flaherty joins the show to talk about the history of the conference, what makes it unique, and what people can expect when it arrives in Bozeman.
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A 30+ Year Legacy Event
The Western Design Conference has built its reputation over more than thirty years as a gathering place for artists, designers, and collectors who share a deep appreciation for Western craftsmanship.
What began in Cody eventually became the kickoff event for Jackson’s Fall Arts Festival, drawing artists and attendees from all over the country. Over time, the event developed a reputation for bringing together some of the most talented furniture makers, leather workers, metalsmiths, and designers working in Western-inspired art.
Beginning August 6–9, 2026, the Western Design Conference will take place in Bozeman at The Brick Breeden Fieldhouse, marking the next chapter in the event’s history.
What the Western Design Conference Is
At its core, the Western Design Conference is a four-day exhibit and sale where artists from across the country gather to showcase their work.
Visitors can walk through the gallery-style exhibition and meet makers working across many disciplines, including:
Furniture design
Leatherwork
Metalwork
Woodworking
Jewelry
Western couture fashion
Interior design
One of the unique aspects of the conference is that attendees are able to meet the artists directly and purchase pieces from them, rather than going through galleries or third parties.
The Preview Party and Fashion Show
The event begins with a Preview Party on Thursday evening, which serves as the official kickoff for the conference.
The night includes a live auction featuring past award-winning artists and a runway fashion show that has been part of the event since its early days in Cody.
Proceeds from the auction help fund over $20,000 in awards that are given back to participating artists.
The Designer Showhouse
One of the most unique elements of the Western Design Conference is the Designer Showhouse.
Inside the venue, organizers build a full house structure where interior designers create individual rooms using pieces from participating artists.
This allows visitors to see how furniture, lighting, textiles, and artwork come together in a real design environment while also meeting the artists and designers behind the pieces.
How Western Design Has Evolved
The definition of Western design has evolved significantly over the years.
While earlier interpretations often focused on rustic imagery like antlers and reclaimed wood, modern Western design draws inspiration from the landscape, culture, and environment of the West.
Artists today often design pieces inspired by:
Mountain landscapes
Natural materials
Wildlife
The traditions and lifestyle of the American West
Rather than relying on stereotypes, many contemporary Western artists are creating work that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design.
A Community of Artists and Makers
For many people involved in the conference, the Western Design Conference has become much more than an annual event.
Mollie herself started as an intern while attending the University of Wyoming, and sixteen years later she now manages the event.
Over time, the show has developed into a close-knit community of artists, designers, collectors, and supporters who return year after year.
Many artists who participated decades ago are still involved today, and many of them are planning to follow the conference as it moves to Bozeman.
Opportunities to Get Involved
With the move to Montana, the Western Design Conference is currently looking for artists, sponsors, and an intern to help support the event.
Artist applications for the 2026 show have already closed, but because this episode was recorded earlier in the year, the team still encourages interested artists to reach out through the conference website to be considered for future shows or the waitlist if space becomes available.
The event is also seeking sponsors to help support the show, which allows organizers to continue funding artist awards and expanding the event.
Because 2026 will be the first year the conference takes place in Bozeman, there is also a unique opportunity for local businesses and creatives to become involved as the event grows in Montana.
The Western Design Conference represents the creativity, craftsmanship, and culture of the American West. By bringing together artists, designers, collectors, and enthusiasts, the event creates a space where people can experience the stories and inspiration behind Western art and design.
Learn more here: https://westerndesignconference.com/
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