The Heroes & Cowboy Girls exhibition portrays aspects of cowboy culture that are usually marginalized in the United States. It explores the roles of girls and women on ranches, as well as the significance of gay rodeo as a subculture opposing discrimination.

Rodeo is a competitive sport that tests traditional cowboy skills such as riding, roping, and cattle handling. The Heroes series explores gay rodeo, which challenges traditional gender and sexual norms within cowboy culture. Gay rodeo combines drag culture and sports into an event that welcomes everyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

The Cowboy Girls series follows two sisters, Jette and Kole, as they grow up and become independent on a remote cattle ranch in Nevada. While the family provides security and continuity, it also imposes expectations and limitations on the sisters. With fewer people able to make a living from cow-calf operations, the new generation must seek alternative ways to sustain themselves.

Photographer Karoliina Paatos is interested in women’s roles and experiences in traditionally masculine environments. Women play an active role in cowboy culture, rodeos, and ranching. Paatos examines why, despite their involvement, women remain largely invisible in the visual representation of cowboy culture.

Finnish Museum of Photography

9.5.-31.8.2025

Tue-Fri 11.00-19.00

Sat-Sun 11.00-18.00

Admission fee 0-16€