Aesthetic Exploration- The Wild West

The western / cowboy culture is something that exists from over two centuries of rich history, and in the modern day is quite departed from its roots. Originating from the lifestyles of horse-riding cattle tenders, the Cowboy aesthetic is largely rooted in 18^th century American expansion into the central western United States / Mexico. The modern aesthetic mostly consists of references to this tough and unusual lifestyle, often glamorizing the solitary and rustic lifestyle that these cowboys would endure. It is also important to recognize the influence that native American culture and artistry has had on this greater Cowboy/Western aesthetic, as much of what contributed to central united states culture was the displacement and conflicts between American settlers and Native American tribes.

This aesthetic exists in modern culture thanks to the influence of countless Western movies made in both America and in Europe. Classic western movies like “The Good the Bad and the Ugly”, “The Magnificent Seven”, as well as more recently titles like “Django Unchained”, “Rango”, and video games like “Red Dead Redemption” all serving as massive contributors to the public understanding of the wild west aesthetic. These titles often focused on more of the outlaw and dramatic action fiction surrounding this American western history, dramatizing a rogue and lawless lifestyle among a harsh landscape.

In recent years, this aesthetic has had a surge in popularity in the United States, with many references to wild west culture finding its way into pop culture and all manners of media. This is thought to be attributed to a desire to re-establish masculine themes in US culture, but is also theorized to be a desire for personal independence and expression by visiting these themes of adventurous solitude and self expression.

Focusing more on where this aesthetic is found within artistic or aesthetic creation, we can look at examples like the Yeehaw Cowgirl Suite, featured at the Trixie Motel in palm springs. This interior design reflects many aspects of the Wild West aesthetic, featuring western styled furniture, rustic themes, cow print pillows, native American designs, and more. The custom wallpaper of this room shows off a dirt road, boots, spurs, and other accessories one might find on a cowboy.

Another example of the wild west / cowboy aesthetic is seen in the fashion choices of celebrities like Pharrell, Beyonce, and rising country star Orville Peck, dawning flashy cowboy hats and leather adornments. This aesthetic within the music industry can be partially attributed to rap star Lil Nas X, with his viral single “Old Town Road” integrating country western themes into modern rap.

Another example of this aesthetic is in personal products like cologne. Cowboy influence is clear in this “Cowboy Cologne”, as well as references to the western associated TV show and national park, “Yellowstone”. These products aim to provide the user with the rustic and well worn aesthetics of the cowboy lifestyle.

Overall, the Wild West aesthetic is an aesthetic that is appreciated all around the globe. Emulating the brazen and robust lifestyle of 18^th-19^th century cowboys, this aesthetic draws in people who seek to embolden their sense of independence and appreciation for American culture. Its duration of popularity within pop culture is uncertain, but currently exists as a classic example of American culture and expression.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cowboy_culture

https://aesthetics.fandom.com/wiki/Western

https://www.gq.com/story/what-is-cowboycore-2024

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_(genre)

https://truwestern.com/products/cowboy-cologne-spray-3-4-oz