Jakian Parks Unveils Photo Exhibit Celebrating Black Cowboy Heritage

In a vibrant celebration of culture, the Oklahoma Contemporary museum recently opened its latest exhibition, featuring the works of photographer Jakian Parks. Titled “The Black Land: Rituals and Rejoicing in African American Rodeo Culture,” the exhibit explores the rich traditions and contemporary life of Black cowboys in Oklahoma. The opening night attracted over 700 guests, marking a significant milestone for both the artist and the museum.

Highlighting Heritage and Community

The anticipation for this event was palpable, especially for Angel Little, a member of the museum’s Board of Trustees. He expressed excitement about showcasing Parks’ work, which emphasizes the historical context of Black cowboys dating back to the early 1800s. “Highlighting Jakian Parks and the work he’s done to really bring the voice of the Black Cowboy is crucial, as this narrative is an integral part of our community and society,” Little stated.

Parks’ photography offers an intimate look into a community often overlooked in mainstream media. The exhibition, curated by Chloé Flowers and held in the Mary LeFlore Clements Oklahoma Gallery, features images of young Black men and women who embody the cowboy lifestyle. Through this lens, Parks aims to redefine perceptions of Black cowboys as not just participants in rodeos, but as essential contributors to their communities and the nation at large.

From Personal Project to National Recognition

What began as a personal tribute to his aunt, Shay Nolan, has grown into a significant artistic endeavor for Parks. His dedication to documenting Black rodeo culture has taken him from local communities to the international stage, including shows in Paris. His recent recognition on the Ebony Power 100 list as a Generation Next Star further underscores his rising prominence in the art world.

Little emphasized the importance of showcasing these contributions, saying, “For a lot of people, they don’t know that these are hardworking Americans who provide vital resources for their communities.” The exhibition not only celebrates the legacy of Black cowboys but also highlights their ongoing significance in agriculture and local culture.

The Black Land is scheduled to run through June 1, 2026, providing ample opportunity for both residents and visitors to engage with this important narrative. Little believes that this exhibition will encourage new audiences to explore the diverse range of art that Oklahoma Contemporary has to offer. “We have the largest and most robust arts education programming in the state,” he noted, indicating the museum’s commitment to fostering community engagement through the arts.

As the exhibition unfolds, it promises to serve as a platform for dialogue about heritage, identity, and the cultural contributions of Black cowboys in Oklahoma and beyond. The initiative represents a significant step towards broader representation in the arts, inviting everyone to appreciate the depth and richness of Black cowboy culture.