Owen Mundy

I grew up in rural Lawrence County, Indiana, working on my grandfathers' farms, making hay and helping with the livestock. I always attended the county fairs with my family. For us, it was a part of life, something we did to belong to the community we lived in. This community, typical of many across the Midwest, was characterized by it's deep-rooted traditions; a simple approach to life, a farmer's work ethic, and a connection to the land.

When I started making photographs at fairs and festivals I was attracted to the aspects I identified with while growing up. For me, it was the traditions that were being celebrated at these events-farming the land, harvesting crops and providing sustenance-the way of life for the rural American. I felt close to my heritage while photographing, as if I was telling a story about myself through the images. Yet at the same time I was describing the humanity of the Midwest, creating a testament to the simple life.

As the work progressed I began to realize that the traditional cause for celebration at the fairs was somewhat fleeting. The fair was more centered on the size of a toy or Janet Jackson poster from a midway booth than by a prize hog, pumpkin, or some other locally significant accomplishment. The traditional culture and way of life seemed to become mere myth while the crowds were seduced by the global commercial culture. I thought about this while I drove through my hometown and saw yet even more local shops had gone while the parking lots at the big-box stores were full. The connection was surreal. The Indiana fair is now a microcosm that represents the new struggle for sustenance in the Midwestern United States. The cause for celebration; the harvest, the occupational endeavors, rewards, and the way of life have changed, replaced by corporate mega-farms, manufacturing jobs, and a ubiquitous seepage of mass culture into everyday living.

The Rediscovering Indiana series reveals many aspects of Midwest culture that are beautiful and tragic at once. One can see in them the simplicity of life, importance of family, and tradition. Yet the culture exists while the traditions are corroded by mass consumer culture. The midwest is a beautiful place. Towns may find themselves without family farms, even without factories, and the people without work, yet the attitude of determination here will ensure its existence.

Owen Mundy
September 2004