Next in Line 

Danny Galieote’s painting, *Next in Line* portrays a cowboy preparing to ride a bucking bronco while another cowboy struggles to stay on. In mid-20th century America, the figure of the cowboy was deeply romanticized. The rodeo, as depicted here, became a spectacle, embodying ideals of rugged individualism, masculinity, and the conquest of nature. Yet, this imagery often obscures the complex realities of the West, including its history of colonialism and the displacement of indigenous peoples. Galieote’s decision to center the image on the cowboy awaiting his turn adds an element of anticipation and tension. The painting prompts a consideration of the performative aspects of identity. What does it mean to embody a certain image, and who is it for? Perhaps in this moment of waiting, the cowboy reflects on the weight of these expectations and the gap between image and lived experience. Ultimately, *Next in Line* encourages us to look beyond the surface of American mythology and examine the individual narratives that constitute our shared history.