Born in 1972 in Cincinnati Ohio, Brian Esslinger is an artist in the truest sense of the word, and now a reluctant business owner. Brian was a senior at the Cincinnati Art Academy in the formal art program when he discovered rock climbing. This new sport led him out west where he went to work as a product designer for a mountaineering equipment maker. It was there that he discovered his talent for sewing and working with leather. Although he had found his way to the west, Salt Lake City was still too fast paced and lacked the laid-back vibe Esslinger was looking for.

Brian can now be found in historic Bozeman, Montana in his own shop at 16 South Willson Ave. Now an avid flyfisher and novice cowboy, Esslinger combines his art background with his talents for sewing and leather work. He continues to hone his craft, helped by years of apprentice working under Dick Swanson a Miles City saddle maker making custom saddles with traditional western carving. He also makes keepsake pieces like wedding album covers and working cowboy gear. Currently his commissioned work can be seen on the menus of such places as Rainbow Ranch Lodge in Big Sky, or the guest registry of Rock Creek Ranch in Phillipsburg. Even the rangers of Yellowstone National Park wear holsters and duty belts with the B.L.ESSLINGER makers mark Bozeman Montana.

Beginning October 1 please visit Black Sheep Custom Leather at: 16 South Willson Avenue, Bozeman MT, 406-587-2530. Or on the web at www.blacksheepcustomleather.com