Brett Badgett is a fourth-generation Montanan whose roots run deep in the tradition and legacy of the American West. His great-grandfather, Shorty badgett, came to the Otter Creek country of southeastern Montana in the 1880s to establish a ranch. Shorty's son, Kirk, continued the ranching tradition by raising Remount horses for the United States Government and Kirk, and his brother, Lee, also rode for the famous CBC horse operation which was reputed to be the largest American horse enterprise ever. Brett's father, Wally, was a collegiate and professional rodeo rough-stock rider who qualified for the 1974 PRCA National Finals Rodeo. Wally is also an artist and the creator of the "Earl" comic strip. Brett attended Montana State University on a rodeo scholarship competing in calf roping and team roping and graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in 2002.

Brett's knowledge of horses, cattle , and the Western lifestyle brings his work to life with a detailed authenticity that has won him many awards and commissions. His works in bronze and oil are featured around the nation including a sculpture of half-size steer roper that sits on the grounds of the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Written by: John L. Moore

Shows:

2005 CM Russell Juried Auction

2001 Omak Western Native Art Show, Omak, Washington

2000 Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Art Show, Colorado Springs, Colorado

2000 Montana Spirit of the Arts, Bozeman, Montana

Awards and Honors:

2006 People's Choice Award Custer County Art Show

2002 Haynes Foundation Scholarship, Montana State University

2001 Best Three-Dimensional Art Omak Western Native Art Show

2001 Best off Show, Omak Western Native Art Show

2000 Critics Choice Award, Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Art Show

2000 Exhibitors Choice Award, Montana Spirit of the Arts