Beyond the Frame: Wood & Slate’s Innovation in Print Products
Pictured: Joe Pekara's Three Little (Humming)Birds printed on high-grade 3/4" thick Baltic birch by Wood and Slate is part of the exclusive The Rootz at The Ritz-Carlton Aspen Highlands Collection
Founded in 2022 by Jordan Jur, Wood & Slate began as a personal passion project aimed at transforming the photo printing experience. Bored with standard prints on canvas and photo paper available in the marketplace, Jordan set out on a creative journey to craft a product more striking and meaningful—something that would evoke the essence of his fondest memories outdoors with family and friends. After an extensive period of experimentation, he found his niche in printing on unconventional materials like wood and leather.
Unlike other companies that print photos on plain wooden panels, Jordan saw an opportunity to elevate the product by combining high-end design elements. By merging the print and frame into a seamless, sleek monolithic piece, Wood & Slate not only solved the pain point of finding a frame for a print but also created a distinctive product that both preserves memories and serves as a statement piece. The company didn’t stop there—its innovative spirit led to the development of unique print products, including customizable teak cutting boards with dual functionality: one side for regular use, the other for display. This concept of “functional art” has been gaining traction, blending aesthetic appeal with everyday utility.
Milestones & Partnerships: From Local Exhibits to The Ritz-Carlton
One of Wood & Slate’s most notable milestones to date came in early 2024 when Jordan partnered with multi-GRAMMY and Sony award-winning photographer Joe Pekara to co-curate a four-month exhibit at the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art at Colorado State University. The exhibit showcased 50 pieces spanning Joe’s illustrious career, from concert photography to breathtaking landscapes.
The success of the exhibit led to a prestigious partnership with the Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands. This collaboration resulted in the debut of The Rootz at The Ritz-Carlton, Aspen Highlands Collection, featuring an exclusive line of Joe’s nature and wildlife photography, printed on a new product crafted by Wood & Slate. These prints come framed in a hand-crafted, solid walnut block, blending luxury with craftsmanship. Part of the collection is available for public viewing at Willow Creek Bistro.
Wood & Slate also created custom branded serving boards for the hotel’s restaurant, designed to spark conversation and enhance the dining experience. Anthony Bourdain once said, “food is an art form we eat” and Jur says “printing a photo on wood transforms a photo into a work of art. As we broaden our knowledge and understanding of artwork, we can expand our creative expression of it to create new and original products and experiences."
The Warehouse: A Catalyst for Creativity and Growth
Since joining the Warehouse Business Accelerator in 2022, Wood & Slate has thrived in an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. “The biggest benefit has been that it’s not just a place to work—it’s a community of like-minded individuals with diverse and complementary backgrounds,” says Jordan. Whether seeking advice on new challenges or drawing inspiration from other entrepreneurs, Jordan credits the Accelerator’s ecosystem for playing a key role in his company’s growth.
Looking ahead, Wood & Slate remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in print products. Unafraid to take risks, the company continues to innovate, creating functional art that not only preserves memories but transforms them into lasting, beautiful works of craftsmanship.
Stay tuned for more updates on Wood & Slate’s journey and be sure to check out their products on display at The Ritz-Carlton, Aspen Highlands or contact Jordan for custom print inquiries. You can check out their print products on their new interactive website: www.woodandslate.com.