R. J. Kern

The Last Fair (2021 - ongoing)

After the Ramsey County Fair in St. Paul, Minnesota was canceled in 2021, I asked fairgoers at other fairs what they would miss most if it were their last year. A common response was the 4-H animal shows, highlighting deep-rooted connections between communities and agriculture.

Rural communities in the U.S. are undergoing significant transformations, with the number of retiring farmers increasing while new farmers are on the decline in Minnesota. As a parent, I am troubled by what this means for the next generation’s understanding of farms, sustainability, and stewardship of the land, especially in the face of climate change. These worries, coupled with the dwindling interest in agriculture among children, motivate my artistic endeavors.

The shift from small family farms to large monoculture operations has had a profound effect on rural America, with county fairs being one of the casualties. Once a vibrant showcase of diverse livestock, some county fairs now see sparse entries in competitions once fierce. Despite diminishing appeal of county fairs to today's youth, these events remain crucial in passing on life lessons and agricultural traditions.

Drawing inspiration from the works of Bruegel and Grandma Moses, I use a large format camera and studio lighting to capture the essence of contemporary agrarian practices at these remaining country fairs. Through the lens of “in-camera photography,” I aim to shed light on the evolving face of American farming and the importance of preserving its heritage.

Website www.rjkern.com