Oklahoma City KEY - Cover Story

For years, Americans have been told there’s a trade imbalance between the United States and the rest of the world. America simply imports more than it exports. You wouldn’t know that by looking at Cross Bar Gallery in Oklahoma City.

Cross Bar Gallery features handcrafted furniture and art of the American West. Almost all of the products sold by the retailer are made in the United States. And with the launch of its new website, Cross Bar Gallery regularly ships its American-made products throughout the world, including Switzerland, Germany, and Japan. Cross Bar Gallery’s popularity, both in the United States and abroad, is just fine with its owner, Jo Wiens.

Jo never intended to get into retail. Raised on a family farm in northeast Nebraska, Jo has always loved riding horses. She moved to Oklahoma City to attend law school in the evenings. Jo became involved with the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association after becoming an attorney. Every year, Jo was responsible for soliciting an auction item to benefit the OQHA.

While soliciting a donation from Cross Bar Gallery, Jo was informed by the current owner that the store was about to close. “You can’t close,” Jo explained to the proprietor, “I love this store.” Several months later, in January 2005, Jo and her husband, Terry Wiens, purchased the Cross Bar Gallery.

Today, thousands of people visit the couple’s store. Some visitors come to appreciate the custom artwork by western legends such as G. Harvey, Martin Grelle, Bruce Greene, and Kenneth Wyatt. Others stop to admire the jewelry designed by Bob Berg and sold exclusively in Oklahoma by Cross Bar Gallery.

There are those who visit the store to pick out a custom piece of western furniture to complement their ranch. Some who cherish the largest collection of C.R. Morrison bronze sculptures in the United States. And still others stop to purchase one of over 200 Brazilian cowhides on display (one of the few import items in the store).

Whatever the reason for the visit, Jo appreciates the opportunity to work with others who share her love for western furniture, jewelry, and art. “This is really a creative outlet for me,” Jo says. “Whether you’re a fellow rancher or city-folk who simply want a piece of the western lifestyle, we really take pride in selling American-made products and supporting local and regional artisans.”

Cross Bar Gallery is located at 4312 W. Reno Avenue, one block east of Meridian next to Tener’s. Store hours are Monday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday Noon to 6 p.m. For more information, contact 405-943-5600 or visit www.crossbargallery.com.

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