Aesthetics Exploration – Western

Figure 1: Cowboy on a ridge

The Western, or Wild West, aesthetic emerged in the 19th century and gains inspiration from the American frontier’s landscapes, cultures, and lifestyles. Within this aesthetic, themes of self-reliance, rugged individualism, and the untamed wilderness are constantly being touched on.

John Wayne and Clint Eastwood are two of the most well known figures for the Western genre from films produced in Hollywood. John Wayne’s legacy reigned during the mid 19th century with films such as “True Grit”, where he played as a U.S. Marshal.

Figure 2: Clint Eastwood movie poster for “The Good, the Bad, the Ugly”

Clint Eastwood was a star during the late 19th century with his classic movie “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly”, which solidified Eastwoods status in Western Cinema. Hollywood’s portrayal of the cowboys has shaped the overall perception of Cowboys and the American West to be a symbol of bravery and frontier justice.

When we consider influences outside of Hollywood, such as artists and writers, we see similar themes of the mythical cowboy that we have grown to know in American culture. Richard Slotkin, a cultural critic, historian and writer, defines the myth of the frontier as “America as a wide-open land of unlimited opportunity for the strong, ambitious, self-reliant individual to thrust his way to the top.” 

Figure 3: 1866 Dime novel cover

Overall, the influences on the Western Aesthetic that Hollywood and writers drew from  were based on the real-life experiences of settlers, cowboys, and Native American cultures during America’s westward expansion. The harsh yet majestic landscapes of the frontier, combined with tales of adventure and survival, contributed to its development.

The legacy and modern influence has led to influence various aspects of our culture. One of those, and this one being my personal favorite, has been fashion. The “Cowboycore” trend has seen a resurgence, with elements like denim, boots, and hats becoming fashionable. Designers have incorporated Western style into modern fashion styles, which captures a blend of tradition and modernity.

Figure 4: Beyonce and models in Cowboycore fashion

Another industry that has seen influence has been the video gaming industry through games such as “Red Dead Redemption I & II”. This video game was the reason I selected this topic as I have been immersed into a world of playing as an outlaw roaming the old American western frontier. The game does an outstanding job at creating characters, clothing, weapons, towns, transportation, scenery, that exemplify the themes of the Western aesthetic.

Figure 5: Dutch, John, Arthur, and their gang of outlaws in RDR2.

One more fun industry that has been influenced is the decor industry. Western-inspired art and interior design elements, like rustic furnishings and cowboy imagery, remain popular, showcasing the aesthetics enduring appeal. The “Urban Cowboy” trend exemplifies the Western aesthetics resurgence in home decor. This style emphasizes the use of worn woods, supple leathers, durable textiles, and rugged hides.

Figure 6: Urban Cowboy Lodge in New York

Sources:

Information:

1. https://aesthetics.fandom.com/wiki/Western
2. https://www.simplytexan.com/spurs-and-spirits/the-impact-of-western-films-on-shaping-modern-perceptions-of-cowboys-and-their-lore
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frontier_myth
4. https://www.gq.com/story/what-is-cowboycore-2024
5. https://wildapple.com/urban-cowboy-the-trend-taking-over-home-decor

Images:

1. https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/914862414733424/  Author: Ash Cosmos on Tumblr
2. https://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-America-Good-Poster-Print/dp/B00130EZMA Author: Unknown
3. http://frontiers.loc.gov/cgibin/query/rintldl/mtfront:@OR%28@field%28NUMBER+@band%28mtfrb+dn008%29%29%29 Author: Published by The American News Company.
4. https://en.xmag.live/cowboycore-discover-the-cowgirl-aesthetic-of-2024/ Author: Unknown
5. https://variety.com/2018/gaming/features/red-dead-redemption-2-1202994341/ Author: Unkown
6. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g47318-d666026-Reviews-Urban_Cowboy_Lodge-Big_Indian_Catskill_Region_New_York.html Author: Unknown