Untitled (portrait of girl dressed as cowgirl with gun, holster and boots) 1954

Here, we have an undated photograph by Paul Gittings, “Untitled (portrait of girl dressed as cowgirl with gun, holster and boots).” While the artist's intentions remain elusive, the photograph speaks volumes about the cultural narratives being consumed by children. This image is steeped in the mythology of the American West, a narrative often romanticized and yet built on the erasure and displacement of Native populations. We see a young girl adopting the trappings of this identity. The girl's gaze is both innocent and knowing, positioned as an active participant in the story. Does the image maintain a traditional representation, or does it develop alternative narratives? The image prompts us to consider the complexities of cultural identity, and the ways in which these narratives are internalized and performed, even at a young age. It’s a gentle yet pointed commentary on the stories we tell ourselves, and the roles we play within them.