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Words from our former senior editor for photography

Tarver’s insights into his work

Biography

Gambling for a win or a goring, Johnny Rae McAdams grips a bucking bull during an event at a Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo in Oakland, California. Bull-riding, probably the most dangerous event at a rodeo, tests a cowboy’s style and tenacity; the rider must remain on the bull for eight seconds and disembark safely—avoiding a trampling, goring, or hooking. Events like this draw thousands of people each year to Bill Pickett Rodeos, one of the largest and best-known black rodeos in the United States. The rodeo is named for the famous black cowboy who first “bulldogged” a steer. Inspired by seeing bulldogs pinning cattle, Pickett would throw a steer by sinking his teeth into its upper lip. Pickett’s fame spread as he performed the feat at rodeos.