2009 Honored Artist

T.D. Kelsey

T.D. Kelsey was born in 1946 and raised on a ranch outside Bozeman, Montana. From an early age he was fascinated with art. He did not pursue the art world immediately, but rather found interest in being a rodeo cowboy, a pre-med student, rancher, and was a pilot for United Airlines for thirteen years. For nearly five years T.D. flew in competitive air shows. Presently, one of his passions is flying his prized experimental War Bird Russian YAK. In 1979 he devoted himself full time to his art and avocations.

T.D. Kelsey is known as an animal artist above anything else. His love of sculpture is based on his keen interest in wildlife conservation, his rodeo career, and ranch life. He is passionate about seeing the wildlife and range animals first hand. His work is both expressive and bold at the same time. T.D.'s sculptures reflect the movement he observes while watching wild animals and participating in daily ranch life. His sculptures come to life and each sculpture reflects energy and personality.

Kelsey is a cowboy and a cowboy artist. He raises Longhorn cattle on his Texas ranch, as well as, showing and raising his cutting horses, another favorite subject of his. His experience as a rough stock rider and team roper, rancher, and romantic, are all glorified in works.

T.D. Kelsey is one of the most talented sculptors in the West today and the Buffalo Bill Art Show is proud he agreed to be the Honored Artist for 2009. His work will be stellar and his lecture during the show will be something not to be missed. You will easily recognize T.D. and his signature cowboy hat, boots, and big smile!