Castellani Art Museum's new folk arts exhibition focuses on Attica Rodeo

The Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University will host an opening reception for "A Good Ride: Arts and Traditions of the Attica Rodeo" from 2 until 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 24. The exhibition, which is part of the museum's well-respected folk arts program, is on display through May 26.

In 1957, the west was big in the American imagination, abounding in movies, musicals and novels ... and in Attica, where a group of teenage boys was about to stage its first rodeo. They formed the Attica and Chaffee Rodeo Club, with more than a dozen members. Today, the renamed Attica Rodeo and Show Association continues as a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that relies on members and community volunteers - more than 100 in total - to host a professional rodeo.

In 2006, folklorists Karen Canning and Claire Aubrey began a project to document the Attica Rodeo, its history and performances, as well as the experiences of its founders and participants. The results of their fine efforts, "A Good Ride: Arts and Traditions of the Attica Rodeo," explores the rich aesthetic traditions, talents, stories and material culture of this local community.

The museum has planned additional programming related to "A Good Ride: Arts and Traditions of the Attica Rodeo."

On Thursday, Feb. 28, from 10 a.m. to noon, Canning will give a talk on "Sold to the boys in the white t-shirts!" Canning's talk is part of the museum's "Meet Me at the CAM" members film/lecture. series. Admission is free, but museum membership is required to attend. Call Susan Clements at 716-286-8201 for more information.

On Friday, April 26, from 7 to 11 p.m., the museum will host "A Night of Country Line and Couples Dancing" led by Bev Randall of Buffalo's Club Infinity. Light snacks and a cash bar will be provided. Admission is $5/free for museum members.

This exhibition is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. For more information, contact Carrie Hertz, curator of folk arts, at 716-286-8290.