We’re looking forward to introducing you to Bria Hammock. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Bria, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something that’s been bringing me a lot of joy lately is going back to school. I’m currently working toward a degree in natural resources, which is a bit of a pivot from my work as an artist and creative director, but also feels like the most natural extension of who I am. I’ve always felt deeply connected to the outdoors, and now I’m learning how to care for and protect the land that’s inspired so much of my work over the years.
Eventually, I’d love to find a way to combine that knowledge with creativity, whether that’s through storytelling, visual art, or something more immersive. I think art can be a powerful tool for conservation when it helps people feel emotionally connected to the land. That’s the kind of work I want to be doing: creative, purposeful, and rooted in the real world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Bria Hammock. I’m a painter, creative director, and the owner of a few creative ventures based here in Cheyenne, Wyoming. I run Hammock Fine Art, where I focus on contemporary Western paintings that play with bold color, wide open space, and just a touch of mystery. I also own Westward, a little gallery and boutique downtown that highlights art and goods from across the region, and Go Slo, a lifestyle brand that encourages people to slow down and explore the world around them.
Lately I’ve been working on finding ways to merge creativity with conservation. I went back to school to study natural resources, and it’s been kind of a full-circle moment. So much of my art is inspired by the land, and now I’m learning how to truly protect it. I’m excited about where that overlap might lead!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One moment that really shaped how I see the world was when I started to travel and actually take time to notice how other people live. That opened everything up for me. And then moving to Wyoming from New York City 15 years ago was a turning point. I still love the city, but I can’t imagine not living somewhere with a little wild in it now. The landscape, the pace, the people… it all changed me. It’s shaped who I am as a person, as a creative, and as a mom. Being out here helped me figure out what kind of life I want to build.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d probably say something like, this creative life you’re building is going to have some wild highs and some really low lows, and not a lot in between. But you’re going to love it more than you ever thought you would. Don’t be afraid to throw yourself into it. That’s where you’re meant to be.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is the version I wish I could be on the inside. I still feel like the girl who got picked last in gym class. I’m incredibly self-conscious about almost everything and constantly replay conversations in my head, wondering if I said the wrong thing. I’ve learned how to show up with confidence on the outside, especially when it comes to my art, but underneath that is someone who’s just trying to figure it all out, minute by minute.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had 10 years left, I’d stop pretending I have to earn rest or joy. I’d quit saying yes to things out of guilt. I’d stop chasing what looks good on paper and focus even more on what feels good in my gut. More art, more travel, more weird little projects that probably won’t make sense to anyone but me. Less pressure to prove anything. And definitely more time out in the middle of nowhere. I’d buy that house on the Scottish island I’ve had my eye on, get some cows, and spend my days painting and watching the tide roll in.
Contact Info:
- Website: briahammock.com goslo.co westwardwyo.com
- Instagram: @hammock_art @westwardwyo @go_slo
