NEWS

CURATOR ANNOUNCEMENT

 

The National Western Stock Show, presented by Centura Health, is delighted to announce the appointment of Kate Hlavin as Curator for the esteemed Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale. This distinguished showcase of exceptional Western Art not only celebrates the rich artistic heritage of the West but also contributes a portion of its proceeds to support the NWSS Scholarship Trust, reinforcing the organization's dedication to education, art, and agriculture.

 

Paul Andrews, President and CEO of the National Western Stock Show commented, “Kate will be a fantastic fit moving forward to organize the Coors Western Art show. She will continue a rich tradition of showcasing some of the finest Western art and Western artists in the country as we prepare to move into our new Legacy building in 2026.”

 

Ms. Hlavin's journey into Western Art began after graduating from Hobart & William Smith Colleges in 2010. She has held key positions throughout her career, including a notable five-year tenure as the Director of Western & American Art at Altamira Fine Art, with locations in Jackson, WY, and Scottsdale, AZ. Her passion for Western Art continued to thrive when she later assumed the role of Gallery Director at Visions West Contemporary in Denver.

 

In 2017, Ms. Hlavin joined the Denver office of Hindman Auctions as the Director of Business Development for the Western Region. Her remarkable dedication and expertise led to her promotion to the position of Department Director of Western Art in 2020. Under her leadership, Denver's bi-annual Western Art auctions achieved multiple sales records, a testament to her ability to connect art enthusiasts with outstanding works.

 

Moreover, Kate Hlavin had the privilege of working alongside Terry Winchell, founder of Fighting Bear Antiques in Jackson, WY, and the foremost authority on the works of Thomas Molesworth. This experience deepened her knowledge of Molesworth furniture and historic Western art, enhancing her ability to curate collections that resonate with Western Art enthusiasts.

 

Kate brings a wealth of expertise and experience in the realm of Western Art to her new role. "With over a decade of professional involvement in fine art galleries, auction houses, and as an independent art consultant, Kate is well-qualified to curate the iconic and influential Coors Art Exhibit & Sale," said Lewis Wilks, Chairman of the Coors Western Art Show and Sale Committee. 

 

Kate Hlavin's commitment to Western Art extends beyond her role as a curator. She continues to contribute her expertise as an independent consultant to Hindman Auctions and provides invaluable advice to Western Art collectors across the United States.