The 32nd National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, celebrated what it means to be connected to earth, land and big sky country west of the Mississippi. Montana cowboy poet Wally McRae called it the “Cowpoke Woodstock,” the coming together of folks united in their passion for all things western. An annual pilgrimage for many, the Gathering remains both a reunion and a welcoming revelation for newcomers. While showcasing the premier poets, musicians, visual artists and gearmakers of the region, the Gathering also takes its stewardship responsibilities seriously with ranch arts education for young and old via workshops and special topic discussions, films, videos and panels that tackle important issues current in the rural West. And it all took place in an atmosphere of inclusiveness, common cause and joyful learning.
THE NORTHERN PLAINS: BIG SKIES AND HARDY NORTHERNERS
For 2016, the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering found inspiration in the flowing grasslands, vast open spaces and indigo skies of the Northern Plains. From the Rocky Mountains to the Dakotas, from the sandhills of Nebraska to the grasslands of Saskatchewan, this expansive land of prairie and woodlands is one of the top cattle producing regions in the world. It is famous for short summers and punishing winters, but also for hardy people, excellent cattle, and fine bucking horses and bronc riders. Cultural and environmental historian of the western plains, Dan Flores, gave the keynote address. His work takes a longue duree approach, seeking to account for both history and the present so that today’s westerners can more effectively make decisions that are best for the long-term health of the land. It’s the big picture from the land of big skies. The public joined them in Elko, as ranchers, poets, musicians and artists from the Northern Plains shared and celebrated this land of enveloping horizons and expansive hearts.
