Experience Cowboy Poetry at the National Gathering
Elko, located in the northeastern part of Nevada, is renowned for its cowboy culture, particularly during the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering held every January. This festival is often referred to as the “cowboy Woodstock,” uniting working ranchers, vaqueros, and enthusiasts to share stories and songs that embody the essence of the American West.
“The Gathering holds a special place for me—new memories mixed with western-flavored nostalgia.”
The Gathering’s Rich History
The event has deep roots in the community, with many participants including families and visitors from around the globe. This melding of cultures creates an enriching atmosphere, where art and storytelling fuse seamlessly. For many, including those returning to the festival, it serves as a nostalgic bridge to their pasts.
Artist Spotlight: Gina Teichert
In 2024, artist Gina Teichert participated as the artist-in-residence at the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum. This museum, originally a storefront for the esteemed saddle maker G.S. Garcia, showcases a variety of artifacts reflecting the history of early Elko County and the tools of cowboy craftsmanship. Positioned conveniently across from the Western Folklife Center, it becomes an essential hub during the gathering.
Cowboyology: A Collective Portrait
Teichert’s project, titled “Cowboyology,” involved creating a series of expressive portraits capturing the spirit of cowboy culture. Over the course of the festival, attendees had the opportunity to sit for quick portraits, during which they would share a word or phrase that resonated with them—ranging from personal nicknames to meaningful mantras. This interactive element emphasizes the community aspect of the event.
Musical and Poetic Fusion
Throughout the event, a vibrant atmosphere was fostered, with other artists like musician Andy Hedges and poet Annie Mackenzie contributing their talents. Hedges played guitar during Teichert’s portraits, while Mackenzie recited poetry. The organic blend of music and poetry illustrated the gathering’s unique camaraderie.
As the week progressed, more than 40 individuals participated in Teichert’s portrait project, each contributing their unique words that would later form a collaborative poem, showcasing their collective identities.
“In retrospect, I probably should have requested a few verbs. As they say, a cowboy never backs down from a challenge. So here it goes:”
Creating “Cowboyology”
Teichert’s final piece—”Cowboyology”—highlights various themes and individual expressions, celebrating the rich lexicon of the cowboy culture. By translating the thoughts and phrases of community members into art, she encapsulated the spirit of the gathering.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum will continue to be a focal point for future gatherings. In January 2025, Teichert will return for a project titled “Shadow Riders,” which will delve into the stories behind the clothing and gear of the cowboy poetry community. This initiative aims to deepen the understanding of the personal stories these items carry, culminating in a short film that documents the experience.
Join us at the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum from January 27-29, 2025, to take part in “Shadow Riders,” where visitors can share their stories and memories associated with their cowboy attire.
All in all, the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering celebrates the legacy of cowboy culture through shared stories, songs, and artistry, ensuring that the spirit of the American West continues to thrive.