Meet the innovators, influencers, and fascinating figures who make up the many faces of the modern West.
Every year, C&I produces a comprehensive list of the best of the West: a guide to the extraordinary offerings this part of the country provides. Travel destinations, artistic creations, classic style, exceptional cuisine—you name it. It's an epic endeavor, one that our team enjoys and in which we take enormous pride. In the past, we've covered legendary towns, thrill-seeking adventures, and iconic traditions. This year, we focused on the people—specifically, the newcomers. From the courageous and bold to the earnest and inspirational, there are plenty of up-and-comers making the American West the best place to be someone.
Click through the categories below to meet the fascinating figures we found out West.
Movie Makers
Chloé Zhao, Writer-director, from Ojai, California. Photography: Courtesy Sony Pictures Classics
Masters of Sport
Keyshawn Whitehorse, the 2018 PBR Rookie of the Year, from Dallas. Photography: Andy Watson/Courtesy Bull Stock Media
Cultural Trailblazers
Reata Brannaman, horsewoman, from Sheridan, Wyoming. Photography: Courtesy Reata Brannaman
Media Mavens
Tommy Orange, Author of There There, from Angels Camp, California. Photography: Elena Seibert/Courtesy Tommy Orange
Fashion Visionaries
Megan Holdren, fashion designer and founder, LiveWire Style, from Greeley, Colorado. Photography: Caree Prince/Courtesy LiveWire Style
Culinary Innovators
Steven McHugh, chef and co-owner of Cured, from San Antonio. Photography: Josh Huskin/courtesy Cured
Design Gurus
Sheila Youngblood, designer and owner, Rancho Pillow, from Austin and Round Top, Texas. Photography: Greg Giannukos/courtesy Rancho Pillow
Photography: (Cover image) Wynn Meyers/courtesy Sheila Youngblood
