There are over 60 different fairs across the State of Washington each year with the first one being held in Southeast Washington in 1866. Traditionally these fairs were gatherings to showcase the crops and livestock in the region and to demonstrate the latest farming techniques. In the 21st century the agricultural pathway for many individuals outside of larger corporate farming operations is fading away. Over time, many fairs have leaned more heavily into the commercial carnival aspect of the fair as a way to ensure financial stability. This has further led to a shift away from the traditional roots of the fair.
Fairs often represent the intersection of rural and urban living, and part of the magic of the fair for me has been observing the desire of many people to hold onto that traditional and agricultural way of life. “Fair Season” is my attempt to show that there is something so refreshing about going to a fair. Riding a rickety old ride, people showing their animals in competition, as well as the various rodeos and carnival shows that take place at fairs across the state of Washington. All of this is such a stark and welcome contrast to the many technological advances that often leave me feeling isolated and disconnected from the world around me.