The why of Westward.
I’m sitting here in my little shop watching the hustle of the Cheyenne Frontier Days crowd move around me. All of the downtown energy has me thinking about what this all means to me {as an artist, business owner and Cheyenne local} so I thought I’d tell you about it…
Fifteen years ago, I packed up my life in Connecticut and headed to Wyoming. It was a big, scary move, both in terms of distance and mindset… a huge risk that I can’t imagine not having taken. Today, Wyoming is my more than my home, and Westward is absolutely my way of celebrating everything I love about this incredible place.
Bringing it all to life.
Go Slo founders, Bria + Jason
Looking back, the glimmer of Westward started 8 years ago with a little e-commerce brand called Go Slo. As a graphic designer I was looking for a project all my own and a Wyo lifestyle line sounded like something I needed to doodle with. I remember being so nervous/excited for our first pop up shop and feeling absolutely humbled when there was a line at the door for us to open up.
First Go Slo pop up in downtown Cheyenne
Since then I’ve always wanted to open a brick + mortar {even when everyone still says it’s a losing deal, a dumb idea and a money pit}. There’s something about curating a space, and experience and a place to celebrate creativity that makes me not care about any of those things.
Westward is more than just a boutique + gallery; it’s a celebration of the West’s creativity and spirit. Nestled in Downtown Cheyenne inside the historic Majestic Building {1907}, Westward blends the old with the new, the rugged with the refined. My paintings of contemporary wilderness are inspired by the vast landscapes and rich history of the West.
Let’s go West + get outdoors.
I wanted to open these doors to showcase more than art; I want to create community. We host events, workshops, and exhibitions that bring people together to celebrate the unique spirit of the West. Our Living Room Sessions feature intimate music performances, and our art classes inspire creativity in people of all ages.
Inaugural Living Room Session with Shawn Hess
The outdoors is a huge part of life in Wyoming, and it’s a HUGE part of what makes me love Wyo. Whether it’s hiking in the amazing state parks or exploring the plains, the landscapes here are a constant source of wonder. Through our gallery, we bring a piece of this natural beauty to everyone who walks through our doors.
Western spirit for days.
Westward is all about the bold, creative, and unyielding spirit of the West. It’s a place where risks are taken and tradition meets innovation. It’s where the wild heart of the West beats strong. As I peek at the years ahead, we’re so passionate about fostering creativity in this Cheyenne community of ours, honoring western heritage, and celebrating the beauty of the West.
Original paintings by Bria Hammock
Thank you for being part of our journey and helping us celebrate the creative spirit of the West. Cheers to many more years of inspiration, adventure, and art.
xo Bria