The Missouri State Fair: Images of a Midwestern Tradition

Rating:
Summary: A Fresh Look at an Old Tradition
Review: If ever there is a book that captures the beauty and grace that is often hidden under the sweat and tears of hard farmwork, this is it. In a series of haunting photographs, Gaskell has found humor, grit, honesty, and a piece of his own soul. Sunday morning bacon and eggs will never be the same.

Rating:
Summary: A unique look at a rural tradition
Review: Richard Gaskell's state fair photographs are well worth a look. His images are respectful of his subject but they avoid the sentimental, nostaligic point of view so typical of much rural art. One is reminded of the great images of rural life that the WPA photographers produced in the 1930's. An excellent book for urbanites who've never been to the fair, but also for rural folks who want an honest but loving point of view of one of their great traditions.