Jump in the saddle and experience real Texas ranchers who meet modern challenges while preserving their traditions. Through photographs and video, see hard-working cowboys and cowgirls come to life as they ride, rope, and rodeo the same way their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents did before them.

Just like their forebears, today’s family ranchers wrangle livestock, battle weather, and study markets to stay on the rugged landscape they love. As one rancher sums up: “Ranching isn’t the best way to make a living, but it’s the best way to live.”

SaddleUP: Texas Ranching and Tradition is a documentary, fine art photography and film exhibition offering insights on several modern Texas ranchers, their lifestyles and challenges of current economics. Photography concentrates on Jeff Davis and Lavaca Counties, depicting West and South-Central Texas families.

PolkaWorks designed the SaddleUP exhibit, with photographer Joe Vitone and videographer Lori Najvar. The exhibit will continue touring after its time at the ITC.