Focus: Black Rodeo

ImpressOK in partnership with Tri-City Collective are bringing a specia exhibit to the Circle Cinema gallery in February - Focus: Black Rodeo! The photography exhibit features works or Oklahoma's vibrant Black Rodeo scene by Jamie and Richard Glisson. The exhibition will debut with a FREE special event on Thu 2/5 for guests to see the art and enjoy a film screening and discussion.

All admission is free but RSVP is requested - click the ticket link to reserve your free spot on eventbrite.

Following the reception will be a special complimentary screening of “Riding Legacy,” a story about the Oklahoma Black cowboy community that has existed since the early 1850s. Directed by Kian Taylor and Jay “Video Hero” Ridley, the documentary highlights the future of Oklahoma Black cowboys / cowgirls that ride professionally and locally.

Order of events

6:00p - Reception in the gallery for the exhibit debut

7:15p - "Riding Legacy" screening

8:00p - Panel discussion on the social impact of Oklahoma's Black Rodeo scene with Quraysh Ali Lansana, Tiffany Guess, Marcous Friday, and "Riding Legacy" filmmakers

ImpressOK and Tri- City Collective are  dedicated to honoring the rich legacy of the Black rodeo culture in Oklahoma. Focus: Black Rodeo shines a light on this vibrant world that has persevered in the face of America’s Jim Crow era and ongoing institutional racism. These challenges have historically prevented Black rodeo stories from receiving the same recognition enjoyed by those of predominantly White rodeo circuits.

Focus: Black Rodeo has sought to create a narrative that invites visitors to experience the thrill, artistry, and legacy of Black rodeos as a foundational aspect of American culture—one that deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.

About the film: 1hr, Documentary, Not Rated, English.

"Riding Legacy" is a documentary about the Oklahoma black cowboy community that has existed since the early 1850s. Our film team (Kian Taylor, Jay "videohero" Ridley, and Nicole Jocleen) began documenting the rodeo season in 2022 from April to September. Our documentary highlights the origin of black cowboys/cowgirls, the black rodeo community, and the future of Oklahoma black cowboys/cowgirls that ride professionally and locally.

About ImpressOk

ImpressOK, a Tulsa-based business operated by Jamie and Richard Glisson, captures local events, causes, and historical moments around the state and nation. Jamie is a distinguished photojournalist, award-winning photographer, and NPR correspondent for Focus: Black Oklahoma. As a photographer for over two decades, Jamie has covered both public and private events that affect the people and world around her.

About Tri-City Collective

Founded in 2016 by seasoned educators, Tri-City Collective has a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and providing learning and artistic opportunities outside the classroom for youth and adults. Our work is driven by a passion for social justice and creative expression, with the understanding that every human has thoughts worth listening to and should have access to platforms to be heard. Education, understanding, and respect are at the core of Tri-City Collective projects. The Collective’s diverse membership reflects the world we want to create.

To learn more, visit www.tricitycollective.com.