GREG CARMACK 

Bandera, TX
 
IG: maplepegs
 
 Greg Carmack started at age twelve by sweeping up after a local bootmaker. It did not take long for Greg’s natural interest and ability with leather and tools to be noticed, and he was soon learning how to build cowboy boots as an apprentice. Thirty-six years of making taught him that the raw materials make the boot. As owner and master craftsman of Carmack’s Custom Cowboy Boots & Shoes, he relentlessly pursues the highest quality materials from a shrinking supply chain. With an extensive network and some luck, Greg identified a few stalwart tanneries that maintained the old traditions. Eager to share this knowledge with other footwear makers, he turned his attention to leather sales by joining AXMS/Orion Calf. Though he wonders if he ever used it, he has a B.B.A from Tarleton State University. He lives in Central Texas with his wife, son, and daughter who keep him busy making boots for them in his spare time.

I have maintained a workspace/shop of my own for 30 years. Most of the boots that I made were for customers, and in their designs. This work is fulfilling, but mostly done to make a living. Sometimes there is an opportunity to make a pair for other, more important reasons — because of a vision, or for a loved one, or just because they need to be made. These are the works that keep me engaged in the craft. I like to think outside the box with construction. I like to combine boot techniques with shoe techniques. I don’t mind changing historical methods for the betterment of the boot or shoe. I enjoy working the project out in my mind and seeing that picture come to fruition. In those moments, it is impossible to think of this craft as “work”.

HERE  |  Article about Greg Carmack in Baylor University’s “Focus Magazine” 

 

The footwear in the exhibition is all bespoke – and therefore custom-made for the customer.  If available, we have provided contact information for you to learn more about how this process works with each of the artists. 

Show Boots
American Alligator, hand-carved tops, sterling silver
Inlayed sterling silver, one-piece top, one-piece bottom
2005

Seasons
Python snake, hand-dyed imagery
Art Nouveau style depicts four seasons, with moon phases and constellations for each season