Diane embarked on her journey into engraving in 1986, around the same time her husband, Bob, delved into crafting bits and spurs. Together, they started Sweetwater Silver. In those early days, skilled hand engravers were scarce, and when Diane finally located a potential mentor, the individual was unwilling to impart their expertise. Undeterred, Diane embarked on a path of self-instruction, meticulously studying antique spurs and buckles to decipher the techniques used. Despite the number of resources on engraving for firearms, there was a noticeable absence of guidance specifically tailored to western bright cut engraving, making Diane’s journey truly self-taught.
Early on, Diane observed western engraving’s relegation to a secondary status–an afterthought, often treated more as a utilitarian necessity than an art form. The prevailing sentiment among silversmiths and engravers was always “quick and dirty,” with a prioritization of speed and efficiency over craftsmanship. However, Diane aspired to elevate engraving to a focal point–for people to buy a piece because they fell in love with its beauty–aiming for perfection in every piece she created.
Diane, driven to break down barriers in Western engraving, has dedicated herself to inspiring others, especially women, to pursue engraving and silversmithing. Since 2002, after receiving an invitation from GRS (Glendo Corp.), she has imparted her knowledge to countless students, conducting regular three classes each year ranging from beginner to advanced levels in Emporia, Kansas. Moreover, her efforts have facilitated the establishment of engraving classes at community colleges and have included participation in an internship program through the Montana Arts Council, the arts agency through which Diane was eventually inducted into the prestigious Montana Circle of American Masters (MCAM) program. Through workshops and seminars conducted around the world, Diane extends her expertise to individuals such as jewelers, knife makers, and gun engravers, participating in Western gatherings and the Firearms Engravers Guild. She has also made significant contributions to the literature on engraving, authoring articles on Western bright-cut engraving and silversmithing.
Beyond her MCAM induction, Diane’s craftsmanship has garnered recognition far and wide, with her works displayed in galleries and museums across the western United States and Canada. In 2003, Diane was the Academy of Western Artists Engraver of the Year. Come 2018, she was also inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame for her skill as a western silversmith/engraver and for her willingness to pass on the traditional methods to others. Today, she continues to travel extensively, showcasing her engraving skills at shows both domestically and internationally, perpetuating interest in this once-neglected art form.
Despite her busy schedule, Diane remains actively involved in professional guilds, as well as her local church and community. Outside of her artistic pursuits, she finds joy in outdoor activities like hunting, hiking, and managing the family ranch alongside her husband, Bob. With two sons and two granddaughters, Diane cherishes family time amidst her busy career.