presents
It makes no difference if you
are an old time cowboy, a current competitor, or a new fan of rodeo.
Here is a collection of rodeo
photographs capturing the feel and spirit of this great sport in black
and white photos with accompanying notes adding to the book's exciting
story.
"In any given rodeo, cowboys
will hurry over to [Serpa], voices full of anticipation, and ask,'Did you
get it? Did you get the shot?'" - Arizona
Magazine
"As a photographer in the arena, my job is to record
the action every time a chute gate opens - and
never get in the
way. The worst thing for anyone working on the ground to do is interfere
with the action; it's better to get get run over -flattened-than to alter
the movement of any animal. You soon learn where to be for the various
events, and to keep an eye on the nearest fence to climb-in case you need
to get out in a hurry." (from Rodeo)
Louise Larocque Serpa - a self taught photographer - began focusing on professional rodeo events, gaining the trust of competitors, and in 1965, entered the ring herself - camera in hand - the first woman to be granted that privilege. The subject of articles in publications such as the New Yorker, Interview, and People, she is the recipient of the prestigious Silver Buckle for Best Action Photo awarded by the Pro Rodeo Sports News and Frontier Airlines.
Larry McMurtry is the author of eighteen novels, including Lonesome Dove, Terms of Endearment, and The Last Picture Show.
As one who photographs rodeo action, I really appreciate the quality and content of Louise Serpa's work. Her text is always interesting, informative,and really complements the photos. Rodeo is a timeless work which has a definite place in the rodeo fan's collection of rodeo photos and books - Joe Chernicoff
