The By Western Hands Design Center's museum and gallery is officially open to the public. The newly-built center showcases furniture in the western design pioneered by Thomas Molesworth. He was a furniture maker in Cody in the 1930s.
Since then many craftspeople flock to Cody to see the signature style which is a rustic, old west approach said Kristin Fong, the executive director of the Center.
"Everything from throw pillows, to saddles, and bits and spurs, and leather bowls and wooden bowls, and everything you can think of western design related," she said.
The museum tells his story and the development of the rustic style, while a gallery displays contemporary artists' work. The goal is to preserve, promote and educate in the western traditions rooted in this area.
Fong said the location is really important.
"It can serve as a hub for our artists whether they are local members or not they can return to their roots in the old west in Cody," said Fong.
It will also host artist demonstrations and lectures at the Center throughout the summer. The Center will be collaborating with Northwest College to provide an associate degree in western design and craftsmanship.