Ivan McClellan's Journey Into Black Cowboy Culture - Ep.59

Uncovering the Legacy of Black Cowboys: An Interview with Ivan McClellan

In the ever-evolving tapestry of American culture, there exist stories that have long been overshadowed or entirely neglected. Yet, photographer Ivan McClellan is capturing and celebrating these narratives through his lens, bringing them into the spotlight. One such story is that of the Black Cowboy—a vibrant and resilient aspect of American heritage that persists today.

A Forgotten Chapter in History

In Episode 59 of the Photo Country podcast, Rajeev sits down with Ivan McClellan, an influential photographer whose work has been pivotal in reigniting interest in the culture of Black Cowboys. These cowboys were instrumental during the early days of the Wild West—a fact often missing in mainstream narratives, where iconic figures like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood dominate the imagery.

From Kansas to the broader world, Ivan’s journey is as fascinating as the culture he documents. Raised on a patch of land in the city, Ivan experienced both rural and urban lifestyles, unknowingly immersed in a culture that he would later come to champion. His firsthand interactions with the subculture of Black Cowboys began with a simple invitation to a rodeo in Oklahoma. There, Ivan’s perception shifted as he encountered a community rich in tradition and culture, one that blended elements of Black heritage with western life.

Breaking Barriers through Photography

Ivan’s introduction to Black Cowboy culture was serendipitous. With a background riddled with diverse photographic experiences—from weddings to commercial shoots—Ivan’s break into this niche was both unexpected and revelatory. He stopped accepting payment for photography, freeing himself to explore and develop his authentic style—characterized by capturing candid, unstaged moments.

His project, Eight Seconds, emerged from a desire to document something meaningful, masterfully showcasing the raw, potent beauty of rodeo events. The name signifies the eight-second ride on a bull or bronco necessary to qualify for a score—symbolizing the intense, unpredictable nature of the rodeo.

Joy as an Act of Rebellion

Ivan’s work does more than document; it celebrates. He describes the rodeo as a resistance, a joyful rebellion against the oppressive climates of our times. Joy, he argues, is a powerful act of defiance. Gathering at these rodeos, communities find collective excitement and exuberance, challenging those who seek to suppress.

A Legacy Carried Forward

Ivan’s commitment to documenting this lively subculture extends beyond photography. With the advent of his own series of rodeo events in Portland and Philadelphia, Ivan amplifies the enthusiastic spirit of these gatherings, fostering community and cultural pride—especially among the youth, who he sees as pivotal in carrying forward this legacy.

A Glimpse into Authenticity

One might wonder what Ivan's photographic style uniquely accomplishes. The answer lies in authenticity. His images do not simply capture cowboys in action; they weave a narrative of personal triumph, familial bonds, and cultural heritage. Images of cowboys adjusting their gear, sharing laughs, or preparing for a race offer universal relatability, reaching beyond rodeo enthusiasts to touch anyone who cherishes genuine human connection.

Conclusion

For those interested in exploring more of Ivan McClellan's work or supporting the Eight Seconds project, his Instagram account, @eightsecs, offers a gateway into this evocative world. Ivan’s efforts are more than photography—they are a reclamation and celebration of stories that enrich our understanding of American culture.

Through his work, Ivan reminds us all that heritage is not just preserved but is actively lived, celebrated, and expanded upon by each new generation. As his lens reveals the captivating reality of Black Cowboys, it also issues a call to recognize and support the diverse narratives that construct our collective history.

As always, thanks Apopo Studios for sponsoring this podcast. Check them out, if you are looking for co-working space or a photography studio to shoot portraits, headshots or products.

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