The New Frontier: An Interview with Jeremy Booth

Kentucky-based artist Jeremy Booth is known for his bold and cinematic portrayals of the Wild West, which beautifully encapsulate the simplicity, resilience and sense of adventure inherent in cowboy culture.

Photos: Tabitha Booth

Jeremy Booth’s journey is one of bold transitions and a relentless pursuit of passion. Starting as a commercial artist, represented globally and working with iconic clients like Apple, Nike, MLB and British GQ, Jeremy made a pivotal shift towards fine art a few years ago. This move was soon followed by the decision to focus on Western motifs, opening a significant new chapter in his career.

His minimalist style, featuring striking contrasts, vibrant colors and simple yet powerful compositions, evokes a sense of honesty and strength that pays homage to the figures and lifestyles he portrays. From cowboys and wranglers to sweeping Western landscapes, Jeremy’s paintings welcome viewers into a world where adventure and independence are celebrated, and the hardships of the past are honored.

In this exclusive interview, Jeremy shares insights into his artistic process, the evolution of his work, and the enduring allure of the American West.

IG: Could you begin by telling us about your background and the experiences that influenced your journey to becoming an artist?

Jeremy: Starting my professional journey over a decade ago, I delved into the world of graphic design. As time progressed, I made the transition to commercial illustration, collaborating with esteemed clients like Apple, Roku, and Warby Parker. As my career evolved, I ultimately found my niche as a Western fine artist. The allure of fine art captivated me, especially after I ventured into selling my digital artwork as NFTs. This experience of creating and selling digital art has sparked a deeper interest in me to start painting my works physically. I began doing this almost 2 years ago, and it has now become my main focus.

IG: The decision to abandon a successful career as a commercial illustrator to focus on fine art is a bold move. Can you tell us more about this transition and how it has shaped your creative process?

Jeremy: The bold move really began as I got a taste of what it’s like to create artwork for yourself rather than for other people, aka clients. Once I experienced a glimmer of the fine art world, I became hooked. My desire for client work diminished, and my desire to create art increased. I didn’t know that it would be Western art at the time, but that came soon after. Fortunately for me, it was after that transition that Wrangler wanted to work with me.

IG: What inspired you to focus on the Western motif specifically? Was there a particular moment or experience that drew you to this theme?

Jeremy: My love for the West began during my time in Southern California and my frequent visits to the West with my family. My wife and I always seem to find our way back to Arizona. More recently, my interest in the West has grown, especially after watching the show Yellowstone. The landscape, hardworking cowboys, and all the drama intrigued me. Because of these factors, I thought it would be interesting to create a series of Western art. Originally, I thought the series would be limited, but I fell in love with the genre and ultimately decided to stay.

IG: Stylistically, your compositions are minimalist yet vibrant, drawing an interesting parallel to the simple, hard workinglife of a cowboy. Is that a deliberate choice or something that happened organically?

Jeremy: The way I approach my work hasn’t really changed since I began as a commercial illustrator many years ago. The only thing that has changed is the subject matter. I do think I tend to lean further into minimalism and negative space now in hopes of creating a stonger parallel of the simplicity and hard work of the cowboy lifestyle.

IG: Photography seems to be an important part of your creative process, using reference images captured by you and your wife. How does this intimate connection with your subjects influence your creations?

Jeremy: This is the most important and meaningful part of my process. It’s in those moments that authenticity is captured, real Western experiences occur, and the magic happens. These trips my wife and I make together are always so impactful. We get to meet the most genuine and hardworking people. We are reminded of how beautiful the landscape is and how we don’t need much in this life. It’s beautiful.

IG: Have there been any memorable moments or anecdotes from these encounters and experiences that have left a lasting impression on you?

Jeremy: Our most recent trip to Sombrero Ranches had many memorable moments. One in particular was when we first arrived. My wife and I unpacked and headed out near the corral. As we began to walk up, we could see miles of high desert land with hundreds of horses scattered throughout. Some were standing still, while others were running. It was a serene moment, almost as if time had stopped. I felt so small and yet so inspired at the same time. I will always remember that moment.

IG: Do you believe modern interpretations of Western art, like yours, can contribute to discussions about American identity and heritage?

Jeremy: I believe it definitely can. I think it’s not the style that determines whether or not it can contribute to discussions about American identity and heritage, but rather the subject matter and message. Even though my approach is very contemporary, I believe that my themes and message about the West remain true to its heritage.

IG: Can you tell us about your collaboration with Niko Kampouris and the creation of the Western Art Dept? What do you aim to achieve with this new project?

Jeremy: Western Art Dept was something Niko and I created right after my shift to Western art. It’s our way of bringing the tradition of Western art to the digital space. We’ve been curating digital Western art since its creation 1.5 years ago. We’re slowing down some on this project as both of our schedules have picked up, but it’s been a great joy working on it.

IG: Can you think of any hidden gems in the art world that deserve more attention and support in your opinion? Feel free to share some details about them, as we would love to get to know these talented artists.

Jeremy: Jacob Lovett, Timothy McOmber and B Shawn Cox.

IG: Are there any new directions or projects you are planning to explore in the future?

Jeremy: There are several things at play at the moment, lot’s of planning going on. Unfortunately I can’t disclose those things just yet. In time though!

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You can discover more about Jeremy Booth and explore his amazing collection of Western art by visiting his website and following his journey on Instagram.