The most interesting photojournalism project out is shining a light on Black rodeo culture. The creator’s work was also featured in brand campaigns for Tecovas, Wrangler, Stetson, and more. Eight Seconds is seeking to do even greater promoting and elevating of Black cowboys and rodeo athletes.
Portland, Oregon will get a treat from Black rodeo enthusiasts. Portland-based photojournalist Ivan McClellan is documenting Black rodeos and is doing it hosting his own large-scale rodeo. Juneteenth will be the holiday used to bring a rodeo back to Portland’s Expo Center for the first time since the days of the Multnomah County Fair there.
It is formerly called “The Eight Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo.” On Saturday, June 17 from 3:00 – 10:00 p.m. at this invitational rodeo, Ivan, Councilor Vince Jones-Dixon of the City of Gresham, and a team of volunteers will host 2,500 people. This event will include bull riding, barrel racing, cocktails, cowboys, and cowgirls.
This is more than just a Western-style rodeo. It’s a mobile musuem with photos and stories of Black rodeo athletes. Children will get to see iconic photography portraying the American West. This is not Ivan McClellan’s first rodeo (don’t hate). His passion in action has been viewed in other media outlats to include ESPN, Elle Magazine, The Washington Post, I-D Magazine, Black Enterprise, Modern Huntsman, and now the Portland Medium.
“This rodeo is the next natural step of a subject that found and captivated me,” said McClellan. “I was always attracted to cowboy culture as a kid, and was blown away when I was introduced to Black rodeos as an adult. After going to dozens of rodeos, I decided that I have to bring this experience to my hometown and share it with my friends, neighbors, and my city–especially young people who can’t imagine it or fully experience it from pictures.”
