Official Guide to Art Week Great Falls, Montana March 15th-19th, 2023
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1219974
the great western living and design show March 19-22, 2020 30 • portfolio Wood crafting artisan Rich Charlson's exquisite array of intricately- patterned bowls, baskets, vases and wall hangings are sure to be in high demand at this year's show. The Russell auction contributing artist also creates stunning wooden bangle bracelets, breathtaking crosses, and gorgeous writing pens using a variety of native Montana woods. "He is a master," Fulcher says of Charlson, a farmer who originally taught himself woodworking skills in order to help get through a devastating draught in the mid-1980s. The wood-turning artist's pieces now adorn homes across the globe. Beadwork artist and jewelry designer Laura Lee Ullrich's jaw-dropping heirloom masterpieces will also be available at the Great Western Living and Design Show. Ullrich says she selects natural stones – such as malachite, lapis, and jasper – then "builds a story around it with beads and special elements." The result is at once both unpredictable and stunningly perfect. The fourth-generation rancher's wearable art pieces are inspired by timeless antique designs, as well as the natural beauty of the landscape surrounding her home in Broadus. In addition to her display at this year's show, you can also find Ullrich's work at the Russell auction. The scope and caliber of the artistry at the Great Western Living and Design Show make it a can't-miss event during Western Art Week. You'll find a wide variety of exquisite paintings, sculptures constructed from horseshoes, clothing made from genuine buffalo hide, leather-and-steel books with pages made of pressed leaves, and beads from all over the world. Historic spirit tipis weighing hundreds of pounds will be on display, and visitors will have the opportunity to learn the meaning behind the symbols and images painted on them, Fulcher says. As always, the Great Western Living and Design Show and all of its events are free and open to the public. Live entertainment begins at 6 p.m. nightly starting on Thursday with Native American artist Jimmy Ray, who will demonstrate how to make traditional parfleches. These envelope-like rawhide containers have been used to carry pemmican and dried meats. He will also discuss the meaning behind how parfleches are decorated, as well as their other uses.