In June 2026, Craft in America unveils two exhibitions – Cowboy Craft: Traditional Art of the West and Marques Hanalei Marzan: Entwine. While the first is a group show paying tribute to the American Cowboy, the latter spotlights an acclaimed artist from Kāne‘ohe, Hawaiʻi.
June 2026 Craft in America
The American cowboy remains a cultural symbol for more than a century. Its legacy reflects enduring values, authenticity, respect for the land, and a simpler lifestyle. Men learned to build, maintain, and repair essential equipment. Thus many traditional Western crafts continue to thrive today. The group show highlights outstanding creations by members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association (TCAA).
Cowboy Craft features artwork made by bonafide members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association. Founding member, saddle maker, and NEA Fellow Cary Schwarz helped to organize the exhibition. Artists include: Wilson Capron, Beau Compton, Shawn Didyoung, Leland Hensley, Larry Lorang, Pablo Lozano, Ernie Marsh, Cary Schwarz, John Willemsma.
The TCAA focuses on four primary disciplines: saddlemaking, bit and spur making, hand silversmithing, and rawhide braiding. Through exhibitions and educational programs, the organization helps preserve these specialized traditions. Although these objects originated from practical needs, craftsmen also pursued beauty and artistic excellence.
The second exhibition Marques Hanalei Marzan: Entwine is part of Handwork 2026, a nationwide semiquincentennial collaboration. It showcases the importance of the handmade and celebrating the diversity of craft that defines America.
A Hawaiian culture bearer and contemporary visual artist, Marques Hanalei Marzan was born and raised in Kāne‘ohe, Hawaiʻi. He is featured in the recent Craft in America episode, WEST. His skill, knowledge, and experience are highly recognized within his community. He serves as a mentor as well as an advocate. Therefore he promotes sustainable gathering practices, perpetuating Hawaiian fiber techniques, and instilling indigenous values in his students. He trained under esteemed experts in Hawai‘i including master weavers, Julia Minerva Ka‘awa and Esther Kakalia Westmoreland.
On view: June 13–September 12, 2026
What: Cowboy Craft: Traditional Art of the West & Marques Hanalei Marzan: Entwine
Where: Craft in America, 8415 W. Third St. LA, 90048
When: June 13, 2026, Art Talk: 3pm; Art Party: 4-6pm
Website: https://craftinamerica.org
