“I've traveled all over the world and met many amazing people, but this cowboy community certainly holds its own,” writes renowned painter William Matthews as he recounts how attending the Cowboy Poetry Gathering in 1986 changed the course of his career.

“[The Gathering] continues to teach me that there are many ways you can be a member of the western community, and contribute to its future,” writes musician Lilly Platts as she reflects on how songs, poems, and art help foster western culture, appreciation, and community.

We’re heading back to Las Vegas this December for the National Finals Rodeo, and you’re invited to join us at the Ahern Hotel, Dec. 10–13, for National Cowboy Poetry Gathering on the Road!

Morgan Buckert turned a childhood admiration of handmade cowboy boots into a career as a custom cowboy bootmaker. Morgan consciously weaves traditional bootmaking with her deep knowledge of the people and places of the West. In this Q&A, we talk with Morgan about her experience making boots and connecting with other makers at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

In this month's Ask a Cowboy Poet column, the cowboy poets talk about a person who is part of their Cow Town State of Mind community alongside their family and crew. And, we want you to answer the question too!