Bruce Bellas (Bruce of LA) grew up in Nebraska, a state with a bit of cowboy
culture in its western region. From the late 1950s until his death in 1974, he regularly
hit the summer rodeo circuit to photograph real rodeo cowboys. In fact, there are some
indications that he was on one of those trips when he passed away. In any case, he left us
a legacy of those men in addition to a number of nude models who posed as cowboys.
Today's series alternates those two types, and the first is from a promotion on one
of Bruce's publications. I have no idea why the cowboy is wearing moccasins.
Nor do I, but those moccasins look the real deal and I would love a pair.
ReplyDeleteI had a genuine pair as a teen, and they are very comfortable.
DeleteA thousand thank yous, Jerry. You know I'm always down for cowboy, ranch, and farm themes, especially of the authentic variety.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Leroy!
DeleteBruce Bellas went to rodeo shows in Ft Worth Texas and the Calgary Stampede practically every year of his photography career.
ReplyDeleteHe would photograph cowboys and a few times recruit local physique models
like Paul Como, Jesse Briggs, Jerry Roquemore and Randy Smith during his travels at the wheels of his Buicks through the years :)
True. I think he was in Canada doing that when he died.
DeleteHe did die during a visit to Calgary from diabetes complications :(
Deleteand loyal Scotty Cunningham was at his side :)