Philippa O’Brien’s “Loose & Cool” Photography Exhibition Portrays New Zealand Rodeo From A Fresh Perspective
by Philippa OBrien · SCOOP2 November 2026
O’Brien’s exhibition which opens in Queenstown on November 5 portrays the little-documented backstage atmosphere and preparation of bull riders gearing up for the rodeo finale. “Loose & Cool” refers to the state a bull rider hopes to remain in whilst preparing to ride a bull. As a documentary photographer O’Brien discovered that the hallowed ground of the chute behind the arena was more enlightening and poignant than the action of the arena.
“Some people were horrified that I was photographing the rodeo but the rodeo I was experiencing wasn’t the rodeo usually portrayed.” O’Brien says. She was encouraged to keep photographing after realising its’ value to rural communities and describes it as “a crucial anchor”. A meeting with a veteran cowboy early in her project has endured. After sidling up to her he shared that “A lot of people out there really don’t understand us. But we know here in the Far North, rodeo is one thing that helps keep our boys off drugs - you can't ride a bull when you're high”. Cody Milton is a young cowboy who O’Brien portrays in her photograph titled ‘The Prayer’. He says “Mental health is a pretty touchy subject, especially for young New Zealanders growing up in rural communities. Being rural-born and bred, I can tell you firsthand that having something to look forward to, whether it’s competing or catching up with your mates and family at a rodeo, can make a real difference. It gives you something to get out of bed for, something to work towards, and people around you who understand you. For me, that sense of belonging is something to be proud and grateful for.”
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O’Brien, an art photographer based in Kingston says she was initially attracted to photographing rodeo because of its “cowboy aesthetic”. She is also a costume designer and costumier for television and film and was drawn to the costume element, the subculture, and the cinematic burnt summer landscapes. Shot over eight years at rodeos throughout Aotearoa during a time of significant cultural misunderstanding and division regarding rodeos, O’Brien has had to earn the trust of the rodeo community and ensure that she doesn’t impede the cowboys while taking photographs. “Working with wranglers and stunt units on film sets means I know how to hold my space and ground. I know how to move around and not get in the way”. She used a medium format camera which is held low, so it was not as obvious she was taking photographs. Being less intrusive, she was able to create unposed imagery.
O’Brien says that she “felt safe and respected” in what she describes as a world of “tonic masculinity” rather than one of machismo as some might view the rodeo environment. Rachael Asher, Campaign Manager New Zealand Rodeo Cowboy Association NZRCA says “We believe this project will have a significant positive social impact by providing a more balanced and empathetic view of the rodeo subculture. For many urban viewers, this series may serve as their first authentic look at the values, discipline, and emotional depth of the rodeo community. In an era where rural life and traditions are often misunderstood or unfairly portrayed, this work contributes a much-needed platform for dialogue and understanding.”
O’Brien is grateful to have received funding from the Central Lakes Arts Support Scheme and the Creative Communities Scheme which has allowed her to produce five large 1000mm x 1000mm photographs for the Creative Spaces Project but she is seeking additional funding to create a larger exhibition that could travel New Zealand. She says that the exhibition is an invitation to learn more about rodeo. “It’s a bigger part of New Zealand culture than people realise.”
“Loose and Cool” Exhibition Venue:
Country Lane Retail Village – www.countrylane.nz
26 Hansen Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9300
Opening night - Thursday 5 November, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Exhibition runs through November
https://www.threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz/creative-spaces-project
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