Hello, I am Clair Kehrberg, designer and maker of Clair Kehrberg Fine Leather Art. I grew up riding horses on cattle ranches in Eastern Oregon  At the age of eleven I went to work in the hay fields and I have been working ever since.  I am proud of my background.  The hard work taught from ranch life gives you grit, determination, and a stubbornness that is necessary in an artist’s life.  My folks, grandparents, uncle and now my husband and I all ranch. Growing up my cousins and I all worked for the family on the ranches, it was great.

When I got into high school I decided that I wanted to do leather work. I got in touch with local saddle maker and friend, Tom Berry, and asked if he would help me. He agreed and I loved it. When I graduated I went to a two year saddle making school in Spokane Washington. There I made my first four saddles. The first saddle is mine – I’m still riding it today. After I graduated from Spokane Falls Community College, I apprenticed with Randy Severe at Severe Bros. Saddlery in Pendleton Oregon. I was only there a short time but I really enjoyed working with Randy. 

In the fall of 2004, I opened the doors to Clair’s Saddle Shop in John Day Oregon.  I have been doing business there since.  Now, I am broadening my horizons.  Currently I make an array of leather art pieces including saddles, chaps and chinks, handbags, and home décor.  Therefore I thought it would be prudent to change the name from Clair’s Saddle Shop to Clair Kehrberg ~ Fine Leather Art as I do so much more than just saddles.  It really is my passion to take a plan raw piece of leather and turn it into a beautiful piece of art.  I love it.

Along the way I have had the opportunity to study with master saddle maker, Dale Harwood.  In 2008 I was awarded a scholarship through the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association to study with Dale for a week.  It was incredible experience.  I continually strive to better my work by studying with masters of leatherwork, such as Dale Harwood.    I have been very blessed to know and count as friends many talented artists.  It is something that I really enjoy and appreciate.  I continually strive to better my work by studying with master leatherworkers and artists.

Thank you for your time.  Hope you enjoyed hearing my story.

Kindest regards,

Clair Kehrberg