Cowboys and Indians are a large part of the American legend and both cultures are striving to be alive while holding on to a past. These rituals and traditions, although opposing, share many commonalities. In 2005 I photographed a powwow at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation of South Dakota. Then in 2010 I had the opportunity to cover the Bull Riding Finals in Arkansas. What interested me was not the spectacle, i.e. what was happening in the main ring, but what was happening behind the scenes – preparatory to and alongside. Here one could see the prayers, contemplations, details and connections.
It wasn’t until much later that I brought the two sets of images together. It was in this juxtaposition that that sought “resonance” and sizzle of energy started to occur. Here two cultures crackled with life. The past came too. Two beautiful cultures side by side and you fill the void. I am not a photographer of cowboys and Indians. I had only this brief opportunity at two similar events. But I pray that this opportunity continues. And I’m sure it will as we remain Lost in Legend.
