In the early 1990's, with some help from other craftsman including
Max Stapleton and Tommy Sprayberry, Russell started making spurs and bits.
At first, like many Texas makers early on, he emulated the styles of Adolph
Bayers and Billy Klapper, as he became more accomplished, he developed
his own style. He gives credit to J.Martin & Jean Bassinger for challenging
him to "think outside the box." Although he still manages his family's interest
in the farming and ranching operation, he has been making bits & spurs full-time since 2000.
As California and Great Basin type horsemanship has become intermingled
with Texas style horsemanship, so has the gear. California and buckarro style
equipment excites Yates and he implements some of those techniques into
his spurs & bits. While he still makes some traditional Texas-style pieces, by blending
in the buckaroo styles, his work has become a very appealing, high-quaility hybrid of the two.
Russell likes the idea that for many years, bit & spur makers were just tool makers
for the horseman, but today they are considered artists. Indeed his pieces are works of art.
He uses intricately engraved overlay and inlay in his work, with lots of gun-style engraving.
In an effort to develop his creativity to its full potential, Russell no longer takes custom orders,
but aspires to design and make high-end collectable pieces that are sought-after by collectors and horseman alike.
Please check out the Showcase page featuring pieces that Russell has made for customers
and gear shows, such as the Trappings of Texas show in Alpine, Texas.
His Store is a little empty right now but keep
checking back to see what becomes available. Right now he has a pair of spurs that are going to be in the Womens Protective Services benefit auction held on June 14th, 2008, in Lubbock, Texas.
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