Meet the Black cowboys changing how we see the American West

Ivan McClellan, a Black American, grew up watching Western films and television, where cowboys were predominantly white. However, his perspective shifted when he discovered Black rodeo culture. His new photography book, Eight Seconds: Legacy in Motion, features 91 previously unpublished photographs that showcase the athleticism, traditions, and self-expression of Black cowboy culture in contemporary America.

These images capture cowboys and cowgirls in various settings, from arenas to family life, reflecting the community's coming together. McClellan's photographs not only portray the dramatic arena action but also the quieter moments, such as portraits of individuals and family scenes, highlighting a culture passed down through generations.

In 2015, McClellan met Charles Perry, a filmmaker, who introduced him to the world of Black cowboys. This encounter led McClellan to attend a Black rodeo in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, where he was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere, blending traditional Western gear with modern styles like sneakers and basketball shorts. The rodeo experience helped McClellan connect his childhood memories of growing up in Kansas with cowboy culture, enabling him to explore his own identity and inspire his photography for the next decade as he documented Black rodeo communities across America.