The American West was not won overnight and there is an argument to be made it was not “won” at all. While we have historically romanticized the great western expansion, the harsh reality of frontier history ultimately shaped the American people and American attitude of today. 

The same stories once sold in Dime Stores about the Wild West, Cowboys, Indians, Town Sheriff’s, Outlaws and Wagon Trails were the fanatical versions of real life tribulations about community conquests, land seizures, early foreign migrations, political compromise, settlements, military life and even the development of modern commerce. The tales may have been tall, but the pioneering subject matter emphasized experiences that were universal; survival, perseverance, optimism, self reliance, individualism and the pursuit of equality. 

Those same stories are told again and again over time into the present through art, film and even fashion. HEELED, A WESTERN BALLAD is an artistic ode, a western inspired story told through contemporary artists working today. Though the applications may change, the same implications seem to still be pursued.

Viewable Online February 27th | ARTSY

Gallery Opening Reception | Saturday, March 13th 6-8p | 1793 E Main St. Midtown Ventura | RSVP

Artist Talk | Sunday, April 11th 1-3p | 1793 E Main St. | RSVP