Bull Chaps
Bull Chaps is a study of bull riding chaps worn by riders on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Professional Bull Riders circuits. The images were made at bull riding events from the Edwards Plateau to Central Texas. Through time spent on a working cattle and goat ranch, I began to notice the subtle adornment used by cowboys, from their spurs and saddles to their chaps. Cowboying is a very rich culture, and is quickly becoming a lost art form. My intent with this typological study is to document these varied tools of the bull riders, and to show and showcase the personality of the cowboy through his choice of ornamentation. I consider these portraits of cowboys, without the traditional components of one, i.e. the subject’s face. It also allows the viewer an opportunity to study these highly decorated and beautiful leather works that are utilized in the brutal and masculine sport of bull riding.
I photograph during an actual event, with some images made just before or after a ride. There’s no time for the cowboy to consider what I’m doing, just a brief moment to document the uniqueness and originality of his custom leather chaps.
Bull Chaps is a study of bull riding chaps worn by riders on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Professional Bull Riders circuits. The images were made at bull riding events from the Edwards Plateau to Central Texas. Through time spent on a working cattle and goat ranch, I began to notice the subtle adornment used by cowboys, from their spurs and saddles to their chaps. Cowboying is a very rich culture, and is quickly becoming a lost art form. My intent with this typological study is to document these varied tools of the bull riders, and to show and showcase the personality of the cowboy through his choice of ornamentation. I consider these portraits of cowboys, without the traditional components of one, i.e. the subject’s face. It also allows the viewer an opportunity to study these highly decorated and beautiful leather works that are utilized in the brutal and masculine sport of bull riding.
I photograph during an actual event, with some images made just before or after a ride. There’s no time for the cowboy to consider what I’m doing, just a brief moment to document the uniqueness and originality of his custom leather chaps.
© Adam Rodriguez. All Rights Reserved. Do not reproduce without expressed written consent.