Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Cowboy: Jakian Parks and “The Black Land”
A Hidden Iconography in American History
In the grand tapestry of Americana, few images are as vivid as the cowboy—Stetson atop his head, denim clinging to rugged form, controlling a powerful horse or tending to cattle on sprawling fields. Yet, for too long, an essential thread has been overlooked in this cloak of American idealism: the rich contributions of the Black community to cowboy culture and the legacy of Black cowboys.
As the country music scene begins to embrace Black talent more earnestly, highlighted by artists like Saboozey and the War & Treaty, alongside major figures like Beyoncé and her viral hit “Cowboy Carter,” there is a pivotal move towards recognizing this often-ignored narrative. Central to this cultural renaissance is photographer Jakian Parks, who has dedicated years to documenting Black equestrianism and rodeo culture, particularly as it unfolds in Oklahoma.
“The Black Land”: A Photographic Journey
Jakian Parks’ exhibition, “The Black Land,” marks his debut solo showcase at the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. This collection isn’t merely a display of images; it’s a deep dive into the heart and soul of the Black rodeo community in Oklahoma. The exhibition provides an intimate look at a culture often hidden from mainstream narratives.
Parks’ passion for photography stemmed from his desire to document the Black experience in Oklahoma. His inspiration ignited following the passing of his aunt in 2019, a pivotal figure in his family’s involvement in Black rodeo culture. “It was like a whole lifestyle that had been hidden,” Parks remarked, emphasizing his commitment to bringing these stories to light.
Capturing Legacy Through the Lens
Through his lens, Parks captures the essence of the Black cowboy experience—one steeped in history and tradition. His choice to utilize real film photography pays homage to the classic Western style of the late 1800s, infusing his work with a sense of historic authenticity. Every frame resonates with a feeling of reclamation, asserting the rightful place of Black narratives within the broad history of American equestrianism.
One powerful image from the collection, titled “Star Spangled Ebony,” showcases Bob Johnson from the Eastside Round-Up Club proudly holding the American flag aloft in a celebration of identity and heritage. Another compelling work, “Grandma’s House,” depicts a cowboy in a quintessential Western setting, evoking a timeless quality that resonates deeply.
Community Connections and Oral Histories
Accompanying the visual artistry is a wealth of oral histories that Parks and chief curator Chloe Flowers sought to collect. They journeyed into the homes and communities of Black families, interviewing elders to encapsulate memories and insights. “It was important to highlight and create a platform for Black equestrianism,” Flowers explained, noting their emphasis on capturing the generational stories that define this culture.
The exhibition does not shy away from the realities of life in the community. Parks depicts both the glorified and the everyday moments, crafting a narrative that intertwines historical reverence with contemporary experiences.
The Power of Everyday Moments
“The Black Land” is not solely about rodeo or grandiosity—it also celebrates the quieter, more human elements of the cowboy lifestyle. From tranquil outdoor scenes that capture the bonds of friendship to poignant portraits like “Adoration,” showcasing a young boy who shares a moment of connection with a horse, Parks brilliantly encapsulates the nuances of life in the Black equestrian community.
Perhaps one of the most evocative pieces, “8 Seconds,” features a young boy practicing bull-riding in pajama pants and socks – a scene that starkly conveys the unfiltered joy and innocence that permeates everyday life within this culture.
Bridging Past and Present
Every photograph in “The Black Land” serves as a bridge between past and present, placing Black Oklahomans amidst the historically exclusionary narratives. Parks’ intention is clear: to tell a story that merges historical significance with the realities of life today. His work resonates powerfully with the statement, “It’s definitely ‘Old West.’ I love history… Even though a lot of these were taken in 2025, I’m also trying to tell history through all of this.”
Jakian Parks’ “The Black Land: Rituals and Rejoicing” is currently on display at the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, where it invites viewers to engage with a crucial part of cowboy culture that deserves its rightful recognition. For those interested in exploring this remarkable exhibition and understanding the heritage of Black cowboys in America, more information can be found on the Oklahoma Contemporary website.
