Official Guide to Art Week Great Falls, Montana March 15th-19th, 2023
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1517069
portfolio For over 15 years, Bryan Gillee's Gun and Western Show has been a cornerstone of Western Art Week, captivating audiences with its extensive and diverse collection of firearms, ammunition, and accessories. is year promises to uphold the tradition, offering seasoned collectors and first-time aendees an unparalleled opportunity to explore a vast selection of guns, including rifles, shotguns, revolvers, and pistols. Among the collection, many pieces remain in pristine, unused condition, while others boast a rich and intriguing history, adding layers of fascination to the already impressive showcase. Bryan, the seasoned orchestrator behind Gillee Promotions, has carved a niche for himself within the firearms community, organizing premier gun shows from the heart of Bozeman. His expertise and dedication have cemented his reputation and fostered a space where enthusiasts and collectors converge, drawn by the unparalleled selection his events showcase. Reflecting on his annual circuit of eight shows across Montana, Bryan shares his wonderment at the diversity and rarity of items on display. "I do eight shows around Montana every year, and I'm always surprised at what people come to the show with," he notes, marveling at the spectrum that spans from cuing-edge firearms to historical pieces valued upwards of $100,000. e allure of Bryan's shows transcends mere curiosity, magnetizing vast crowds that oen exceed expectations. Highlighting the unique audience araction, the organizer notes, "Because the gun show runs in conjunction with Western Art Week, it does aract a lile different crowd." Reflecting on the previous year's success, he adds, "Last year it was gangbusters. We had 4,000 people. I don't know why since we didn't do anything different from in years past, but it was fantastic." is surge in interest, devoid of any clear catalyst, underscores the intrinsic appeal and growing enthusiasm within the gun and ammunition community for events that not only celebrate but also preserve the intricate legacy of firearm history and innovation. Beyond the extensive range of firearms and gun-centric paraphernalia, aendees of the Great Falls Gun and Western Show will find themselves immersed in a rich tapestry of culture and history. e event showcases an impressive collection of Native American and Western artifacts, art, cowboy accoutrements, blades, glasswork, jewelry, and much more, all available for appreciation and acquisition. Set to unfold at the Exhibition Hall within the Montana ExpoPark, the event welcomes enthusiasts with an admission of $10.00 for adults, while children 15 and younger enter for just $1.00 when accompanied by an adult. is one-time admission fee grants comprehensive access throughout the weekend, spanning Friday through Sunday. All aendees must observe and comply with federal, state, and local firearms regulations while at the show. 56 • portfolio GREAT FALLS GUN AND WESTERN SHOW Show Schedule Friday, March 15 Show Opens | 3 pm - 7 pm Saturday, March 16 Show Opens | 9 am - 6 pm Sunday, March 17 Show Opens | 9 am - 3 pm Montana Expo Park 400 3rd St. NW GREAT FALLS GUN & WESTERN SHOW By Susie Wall The Gun and Western Show Marks More Than 15 Years of Firearm Fascination and Cultural Heritage Frontiers of Tradition The Great Falls Gun And Western Show offers numerous tables to meet the gun needs of Everyone, from the once-a-year hunter to the avid collector.

