Tribute to Tammy Pate: Trailblazing Woman Behind Art of the Cowgirl

Cowgirl great, Tammy Pate, an inspiring wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all went to be with the Lord.

Lauren Fritzler | Dec 23, 2023

Tribute to Tammy Pate: Trailblazing Woman Behind Art of the Cowgirl /

Where the spirit of the cowgirl is woven into the very fabric of its history, one name stands out: Tammy Pate. We are deeply saddened by the loss of a true cowgirl, one who took strides to protect her family's history as well as that of cowgirls everywhere. As the visionary founder of Art of the Cowgirl, Pate was not just a cowgirl by birth but a true creative force, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Western heritage.

Tammy Pate's roots run deep in the saddle, tracing back to a lineage of cowgirls who instilled creativity in her. Pate and her family called Montana home, but her connection with the lifestyle was not merely a geographical one; it was a profound bond with the spirit of resilience, independence, and artistry that defines the cowgirl way of life.

A creative cowgirl herself, Pate understood that by mastering a skill, a woman could provide for her family no matter where life may take her. She often shared that culture remains in learned talent and lives are transformed through work done by hands. Thus the birth of Art of the Cowgirl.

Art of the Cowgirl, an annual event Pate conceived, is a testament to her vision of blending the rugged authenticity of the cowgirl spirit with the finesse of artistic expression. The event has become a gathering place for cowgirls and enthusiasts alike. But it’s not just a gathering, it’s a celebration of the unbridled passion and craftsmanship that cowgirls embody. Through this platform, Pate has provided a stage for artists, craftsmen, and cowgirls to shine, ensuring that their contributions to the Western heritage are recognized and celebrated.

Pate’s leadership in the realm of cowgirl arts is a beacon for aspiring cowgirls, showing that there is a place for creativity within the lifestyle. She demonstrated that artistry is expression in the cowgirl community.

Tammy Pate continues to ride the trails on the most beautiful horses, leaving behind a legacy that echoes the resilient heartbeat of the cowgirl spirit.

Our heartfelt condolences are with Tammy Pate’s loved ones as they go through this difficult time. She will be missed by so many!

Published Dec 23, 2023

LAUREN FRITZLER

Originally from Northeastern Colorado, Lauren grew up on a farm and ranch where she was heavily involved in production ag. The small Colorado town allowed Lauren to flourish. Lauren’s family has a generational love for rodeo and she was naturally attracted to the western lifestyle. From an early age, she would compete in rodeos and travel with her mom to rodeos around the state while juggling school involvement. She prides herself in not only competing in rodeos, but winning rodeos on horses raised on the ranch. Lauren got to Texas as fast as she could. She currently attends West Texas A&M University where she studies Agricultural Media and Communication with a double minor in Ag Business and Economics and Broadcast Journalism. She is an Agricultural Ambassador for the Department and serves as the President for Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. When Lauren is not in the classroom, she is striving for excellence in her professional life. She has completed an internship at the College National Finals Rodeo and the Tri-State Fair and Rodeo, where she gained skills to make her mark on the western industry. She uses her graphic design skills to create logos for small businesses, travels to spend time with family, and immerses herself into the rodeo world. No matter where life takes her, Lauren is strong-willed and dedicated to her God-given purpose. Day by day, she aspires to be an advocate for agriculture and the western lifestyle. Lauren Fritzler believes we are all lifelong students, that the western lifestyle allots extensive learning opportunities throughout a lifetime. In efforts to teach others about rodeo, she is thrilled at the opportunity to collaborate with Sports Illustrated Rodeo Daily.